Istanbul: Trkiye has emerged as both a reliable energy transit partner and a key actor for peace, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan announced at the Istanbul National Resources Summit. Erdogan emphasized Trkiye's strategic position as a crucial link between energy-rich regions and energy-consuming nations, highlighting its importance in ensuring secure energy supply amid rising regional tensions.
According to Anadolu Agency, Erdogan detailed plans to boost Trkiye's energy infrastructure, focusing on the expansion of liquefied natural gas (LNG) facilities. He revealed that Trkiye aims to increase its daily LNG gasification capacity to 200 million cubic meters from the current 161 million cubic meters, reinforcing its status as one of Europe's strongest energy hubs. This move underscores Ankara's commitment to advancing energy diplomacy alongside its broader peace efforts.
Trkiye's strategic location between energy-producing regions and major consumer markets has solidified its role as a key transit route amid global energy security concerns. Erdogan announced that daily production at the Sakarya Gas Field in the Black Sea has reached 9.5 million cubic meters. With the commissioning of a second floating production platform in 2028, output is expected to rise to 45 million cubic meters per day, supplying domestic gas to 16 million to 17 million households.
Erdogan reiterated that Trkiye views energy self-sufficiency as a strategic priority. The nation is focused on reducing external dependency by expanding domestic production and overseas exploration activities. Output from the Gabar oil field in southeastern Trkiye is significantly contributing to the country's energy supply security. Additionally, four new fields have been identified in Diyarbakir province, with plans to work on 24 wells over the next three years.
Trkiye's exploration activities off Somalia mark a historic milestone as the country's first overseas deep-sea drilling operation. Erdogan also mentioned joint efforts with Syria's new government in mining and oil sectors. He affirmed Trkiye's determination to achieve greater accomplishments in energy, mining, and natural resources, emphasizing the goal of achieving full independence in energy as a national ideal, akin to the defense industry.