Korean builder signs MOU for potential role in modernizing key waterway stretching 250 kilometers
Daewoo Engineering & Construction will cooperate with Turkmenistan to modernize a 250-kilometer section of the Karakum Canal as the Korean builder looks to expand its presence in the latter's various industrial sectors
Representatives from the firm and Turkemenistan's State Committee for Water Management signed a memorandum of understanding for the project during the Korea-Turkmenistan Business Forum held at Lotte Hotel Seoul the previous day, Daewoo E&C said Wednesday.
The MOU lays the groundwork for Daewoo E&C’s potential participation in the modernization of a 250-kilometer section in the canal’s lower reaches. Through the partnership, the two sides will explore opportunities to cooperate on promising water resources and environmental infrastructure projects in Turkmenistan.
The Karakum Canal is considered one of the world’s largest irrigation and water supply canals. It stretches approximately 1,100 km across Turkmenistan, running from the Amu Darya River in the north to the country’s west. The canal is typically 25 to 30 meters wide.
Completed in the 1960s, the Karakum Canal has played a vital role in supplying water for households as well as the agricultural and industrial sectors. However, the need to modernize the aging infrastructure has grown as Turkmenistan seeks to improve water management efficiency and secure a more stable water supply.
Daewoo E&C entered the Turkmennistan market in May last year after winning a contract to build a mineral fertilizer plant. The facility, scheduled for completion in 2028, will have an annual production capacity of 350,000 metric tons of phosphoric acid and 100,000 tons of ammonium sulfate.
Looking to leverage its entry into the local market, the Korean builder hopes to secure more orders in industrial facilities and infrastructure construction in the Central Asian country.
During the Korea-Turkmenistan Business Forum, Daewoo E&C Chairman Jung Won-ju met with Turkmenistan President Serdar Berdimuhamedov to outline the builder’s plans for additional projects and seek support from the Turkmenistan government.
Jung is participating in various events held alongside Wednesday's Korea-Central Asia Summit, including a state dinner at Cheong Wa Dae, as the company aims to build broader partnerships across Central Asia.
"This MOU is significant as it lays the foundation for Daewoo E&C’s entry into Turkmenistan’s water resources and environmental infrastructure market," a Daewoo E&C official said.
"Building on our technological capabilities and experience in civil engineering, we will support the successful implementation of the project and expand cooperation across various sectors."
hwkan@heraldcorp.com
