Syria’s changing landscape positions Türkiye as Eastern Mediterranean energy hub

Türkiye is emerging as a key player in the Eastern Mediterranean energy sector as shifting regional dynamics in Syria open new opportunities for energy integration, according to leading expert Karim Elgeny.

Elgeny, a researcher at Chatham House, highlighted how the collapse of Syria’s decades-long Assad regime has reshaped regional energy prospects. “Türkiye, with its extensive network of gas pipelines and liquefied natural gas (LNG) terminals, stands ready to become the region’s energy hub as Syria’s transformation is rewriting the Eastern Mediterranean’s energy map,” he said.

Türkiye’s expanding energy infrastructure

Elgeny pointed to Türkiye’s robust energy infrastructure as a significant advantage. The country currently operates seven gas pipelines, five LNG terminals, three floating storage units, and two underground storage facilities—assets that reinforce its position as a strategic energy transit hub.

He noted that potential connections to Syria’s Arab Gas Pipeline network could offer regional producers more viable routes to European markets. “The potential revival of the Qatar-Türkiye pipeline project could reshape regional energy flows,” he added.

Türkiye has also made strides in renewable energy, which now accounts for approximately 43% of its electricity production. Elgeny suggested this could serve as a model for Syria’s long-term reconstruction efforts.

New energy opportunities in the region

Elgeny emphasized that the evolving energy landscape presents broader opportunities beyond Syria’s immediate borders.

“While Qatar and Saudi Arabia could revive their pipeline ambitions, countries like Egypt, Israel, and Lebanon could gain access to more cost-effective export routes. And Jordan’s existing pipeline infrastructure makes it a natural partner in this emerging network,” he explained.

These developments, he noted, pose challenges to the Eastern Mediterranean Gas Forum’s EastMed Pipeline project, which is backed by Greece and the Greek Cypriot administration.

The proposed 1,900-kilometer (1,180-mile) deepwater pipeline aims to transport regional energy resources to Europe via Greece and the Greek Cypriot administration.

However, Elgeny pointed out that the EastMed project has faced significant technical and financial hurdles. “A land route through Syria to Türkiye’s network offers a more practical solution that could encourage regional cooperation despite existing maritime disputes,” he said.

Türkiye’s role in Syria’s reconstruction

Beyond energy, Elgeny underscored Türkiye’s role in Syria’s reconstruction, citing its long-standing regional engagement and expertise in post-disaster rebuilding.

“With its 900-kilometer shared border and experience hosting 3.6 million Syrian refugees, Türkiye brings a unique understanding to the task. Fresh from managing large-scale reconstruction after the 2023 Kahramanmaras earthquake, Turkish companies are well-positioned to tackle Syria’s estimated $400 billion rebuilding needs,” he said.

Türkiye’s construction sector has gained extensive experience in rebuilding after major earthquakes, a factor that could make it an essential player in Syria’s post-war recovery efforts.