Türkiye to Receive Turkmen Gas via Swap Agreement with Iran
Türkiye is set to receive 1.3 billion cubic meters (bcm) of natural gas from Turkmenistan through a swap agreement with Iran, starting in March and continuing through the end of the year, as announced by Alparslan Bayraktar, Türkiye’s Minister of Energy and Natural Resources, on Wednesday.
Bayraktar explained that the gas will be sent from Turkmenistan to Iran, then transported to Türkiye’s Gurbulak entry point via the Iran-Türkiye Natural Gas Pipeline.
Strategic Importance of the Agreement
Bayraktar emphasized the strategic significance of this deal, highlighting its role in diversifying Türkiye’s energy sources, reducing natural gas costs, and ensuring a stable and competitive supply. He also pointed out Turkmenistan’s importance as a key gas supplier and producer. “Bringing Turkmen gas to Türkiye—and potentially transporting it to Europe, where demand is rising—is of strategic importance,” he said.
While Türkiye’s infrastructure is prepared for this arrangement, Bayraktar noted a critical challenge: the legal status and transit of the Caspian Sea. “If we establish a pipeline crossing the Caspian Sea, we will have the opportunity to supply significantly larger volumes of gas, both for Türkiye and Europe. This is ultimately our key objective,” he added.
Milestone in Gas Supply
The agreement marks a milestone for Türkiye, as it will begin importing pipeline gas from Turkmenistan for the first time in over 20 years. Bayraktar called this development a “significant milestone,” as part of Türkiye’s broader strategy to diversify its gas supply by sourcing from a variety of countries.
Future Gas Supply and Export Projects
Bayraktar was also asked about potential new energy deals. He revealed that Türkiye is actively working on various projects related to both gas imports and exports. He pointed out that Europe, in particular, has substantial expectations regarding gas supply.
The minister emphasized Türkiye’s ongoing efforts to expand its gas exports and diversify its energy sources. He stated, “If a project creates value for Türkiye and cooperating countries, creating a win-win situation, Türkiye will support it.” He further added, “We will always back initiatives that contribute to regional peace, development, and prosperity.”
