Türkiye’s Minister of Energy and Natural Resources, Alparslan Bayraktar, announced that Türkiye will supply 1.3 billion cubic meters of natural gas from Turkmenistan by the end of this year. Accompanying President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan during his visit to Indonesia, Bayraktar shared insights on the historic natural gas agreement between Türkiye and Turkmenistan.
First Pipeline Gas Supply from Turkmenistan to Türkiye
Bayraktar emphasized that transporting Turkmen gas to Türkiye has been a longstanding goal. He stated:
“We aim to diversify and expand Türkiye’s natural gas supply sources by importing gas from different countries. This agreement is part of that strategy. Over the years, we have already secured LNG supply from various nations through regasification terminals. However, for the first time in over 20 years, Türkiye will be importing pipeline gas from a non-bordering country, making this a landmark achievement.”
Bayraktar also highlighted that although discussions on Turkmen gas date back to 1998, no actual gas deliveries have taken place for nearly 30 years. However, as of March 1, this will change, with Türkiye set to receive Turkmen gas via Iran.
Gas Swap Agreement via Iran
Türkiye will receive Turkmenistan’s gas through a swap deal with Iran, meaning that Turkmenistan will supply gas to Iran, which will then transfer an equivalent amount to Türkiye via the Gurbulak gas connection point. Bayraktar described this as a crucial agreement for cost reduction, energy security, and competitive pricing.
Caspian Sea Status & the Future of Gas Transport
While reaffirming Türkiye’s commitment to further diversification, Bayraktar noted that Turkmenistan is a key gas producer, with the potential to supply both Türkiye and Europe. However, one major obstacle remains:
“The status and transit routes of the Caspian Sea pose a key challenge. If a Caspian-crossing pipeline is established, it will enable the transportation of much larger volumes of gas to both Türkiye and Europe. Our ultimate goal is to secure higher gas flows through this route.”
Türkiye’s Growing Role in Energy Imports & Exports
Addressing potential new energy agreements, Bayraktar emphasized ongoing efforts to expand both gas imports and exports, stating:
“Europe has significant natural gas demands. Recently, Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico met with President Erdoğan to discuss supply concerns following Ukraine’s transit disruptions. As a result, we facilitated gas deliveries via Türkiye starting February 1. Our focus remains on attracting diverse energy sources to Türkiye and expanding our export potential.”
Bayraktar reiterated that Türkiye will support any energy project that creates mutual value, strengthens regional stability, and enhances energy security. He confirmed that Türkiye will continue to play a key role in regional energy infrastructure and supply security.
Source: Patronlar Dünyası/ Prepared by: İlayda Gök