Da landlocked a landlinked, alle proprie condizioni: connettività e megaprogetti in Turkmenistan

This article examines the concept of the mega-project as a lens through which to explore the connectivity strategies of Turkmenistan, a Central Asian republic often portrayed as remote and isolated. Despite its landlocked geography and a cautious foreign policy grounded in permanent neutrality, Turkmenistan has launched a series of large-scale infrastructural initiatives aimed at enhancing its integration into global networks. While the country lacks the geopolitical leverage of other post-Soviet states such as Azerbaijan or Kazakhstan, Turkmenistan has pursued a tous azimuts strategy, seeking to capitalize on all available economic opportunities. Ashgabat foreign policy is closely tied to the imperative of exporting natural gas, the cornerstone of its national economy. Surrounded by landlocked or unstable neighbors, and competing with regional energy powers like Iran and Russia, the country is compelled to explore new routes and markets. In recent years, Turkmenistan has initiated several ambitious projects—some completed, others still in the planning stage—demonstrating a clear intention to overcome structural constraints through infrastructure-led development.