TAPI Pipeline Push: Turkmenistan’s oil and gas leadership reviewed progress on the Turkmenistan–Afghanistan–Pakistan–India (TAPI) gas pipeline, focusing on accelerating work on the Serhetabat–Herat section and keeping construction aligned with international standards, while also setting priorities for more exploration, drilling and higher-quality output. GDP and Sector Mix: Turkmenistan reported 6.3% GDP growth for the first half of 2026, with official figures pointing to stronger transport/communications, trade and services, while industry and agriculture lagged; the report also notes skepticism from the IMF over the official narrative. Energy and Innovation Cooperation: CAREC met with Türkiye’s Turkish States Innovation Hub in Ashgabat to discuss clean energy, climate and water projects, with cooperation framed around education, innovation and green energy. Regional Summit Roadmap: Turkmenistan’s MFA outlined preparations for the “Central Asia – Republic of Korea” summit, including a draft final document and plans for business links in industry, energy, transport and logistics. Investment Forum Calendar: Ashgabat is preparing for TIF 2026 on Oct 1–2, with a program spanning energy, transport corridors, digital economy, green projects and agriculture, plus an AI-focused panel. Customs and Trade Facilitation: Turkmenistan is also reported to be renovating a customs post on the border with Iran, supporting smoother cross-border trade flows. Middle Corridor Logistics Context: A regional overview highlights major Eurasian rail investment plans and the growing role of Central Asia in Asia–Europe connectivity, relevant to Turkmenistan’s corridor ambitions.