In a significant development for energy cooperation in the region, Turkish Energy Minister Albarslan Bayraktar announced plans for Turkey to export natural gas to Syria, with an expected start date within three months. This announcement came during an interview on CNN Turk on May 8, 2025, where Bayraktar emphasized that the gas exported will be crucial for electricity production in Syria, particularly benefiting the war-torn city of Aleppo.
Bayraktar detailed that the planned export is set to reach one million cubic meters of natural gas daily, which translates to approximately two billion cubic meters annually. This gas will primarily be utilized to power the Aleppo power plant, a vital facility for restoring electricity supplies in a region that has suffered extensive infrastructure damage due to over a decade of conflict.
Construction for the necessary pipeline has already commenced within Syrian territory, with the gas being transported from the Turkish province of Kilis to Aleppo. Bayraktar reported that the pipeline has reached the Syrian border, and the aim is to begin gas flow within three months, providing much-needed resources for power plants in the area.
In tandem with the gas supply, Turkey is also working to improve Syria's electricity infrastructure. Bayraktar noted that Aleppo would receive around 200 megawatts of electricity from Turkey to help restore normalcy to daily life. “Electricity production in Syria depends heavily on gas, and we are contributing to restoring daily life there and helping Syrians return to a normal life,” he said.
During a meeting in Istanbul on May 1, 2025, Bayraktar met with Syrian Energy Minister Muhammad al-Bashir to discuss this energy cooperation. The meeting was part of the Natural Resources Summit, an international platform aimed at fostering dialogue among decision-makers and experts in the energy sector. Both ministers highlighted the importance of enhancing bilateral cooperation in various energy fields, including traditional and renewable energy sectors.
Bayraktar and al-Bashir discussed opportunities for joint investments in energy infrastructure projects and emphasized the need for continuous coordination to enhance regional energy security. They also expressed a desire to open new avenues for collaboration in research, development, and technology transfer.
In his remarks, Bayraktar underlined Turkey's commitment to supporting the restoration of Syria, stating, “One of Turkey's priorities is to restore life to its natural state in Syria.” He pointed out the extensive damage to Syrian infrastructure resulting from the ongoing conflict, which has lasted for 13 years.
Furthermore, Bayraktar addressed concerns regarding potential increases in electricity and natural gas bills for Turkish consumers. He stated that while there would be no immediate increases, the government is gradually reducing subsidies for higher consumption levels. “We are experiencing major transformations on a global level, from high-cost conflicts to trade wars,” he noted, emphasizing the importance of energy security in light of recent electricity outages in Europe.
Bayraktar also reaffirmed Turkey's strategic role in the energy landscape, asserting that Turkey has become a central player in energy due to its geographical location, economic strength, and significant investments in energy infrastructure. “During the recent meeting, 14 countries participated, which reflects that Turkey has become a central country in the field of energy,” he stated.
In addition to the developments in Syria, Bayraktar discussed Turkey's ongoing energy exploration initiatives, including efforts in Somalia and Iraq. He dismissed allegations of Turkey pursuing a colonial agenda in Somalia, labeling such claims as unfounded and politically motivated. Instead, he emphasized Turkey's commitment to supporting Somalia during its time of need and its potential as a significant player in the hydrocarbons sector.
As Turkey prepares to supply natural gas to Syria, the implications for regional energy dynamics are significant. The collaboration not only aims to alleviate Syria's energy crisis but also enhances Turkey's geopolitical influence in the region. By fostering energy ties with its neighbor, Turkey seeks to play a pivotal role in the reconstruction and stabilization of Syria.
In summary, the planned natural gas exports from Turkey to Syria represent a crucial step towards revitalizing the energy infrastructure in a country ravaged by war. As both nations work together to restore normalcy, the future of their energy cooperation appears promising, with the potential for expanded partnerships in various energy sectors.
