Large-scale growth of naval forces is out of the question: Turkmen president

"Like any other country with an access to the sea we need ships to patrol our marine borders to maintain necessary level of security and prevent terrorism, to combat organized poaching crime and to prevent drug trafficking. And no more. Large-scale growth of naval forces is and will be out of the question."

Berdimuhammedov noted that the very term "Turkmen Navy" is not quite correct.

"You know, during the division of the former Soviet Union's military-technical base, all fighting ships of the Caspian fleet were sent to their old port of registration Baku and Astrakhan. Only two or three frontier boats accounted for Turkmenistan. Thus, reference "the Turkmen Navy" has been inapplicable for a long time because of the absence of the fleet itself. Regarding the current process of technological upgrading, there is not controversy or sensation here."

According to the president, the Caspian littoral states are in constant negotiations regarding the maritime delimitation and conservation of the Caspian bio-resources and process of creating disarmament area on the sea.

"It is difficult process, but it constantly develops. I believe we all are on the right path and will be able to make the Caspian Sea a sea of peace and harmony."

In August, 2009, Berdimuhammedov signed a decree to establish a naval base in the Caspian coast, which will be equipped with modern surveillance equipment and ships with missiles on board.

The president stressed that Turkmenistan, along with land borders also has a long maritime border, which must be carefully guarded.

"Turkmenistan does not make territorial claims towards any country and does not consider any country its enemy. Turkmenistan considers its borders as those of peace, friendship and good neighborhood," Berdimuhamedov said.

/Trend News/