Istanbul:Energy security, investment, and financial infrastructure were key topics on the final day of the Verona Eurasian Economic Forum in Istanbul. Turkish Energy and Natural Resources Minister Alparslan Bayraktar emphasized the need for diversification, investment, and international cooperation due to geopolitical tensions, supply disruptions, and rising energy demand.

According to Anadolu Agency – English, Bayraktar highlighted that Turkey imports nearly 70% of its energy, making energy independence a strategic priority. He noted that renewable sources now account for over 62% of Turkey's electricity generation capacity, with wind and solar exceeding 43 gigawatts.

Turkey is planning significant investments in electricity networks to support renewable capacity, improve grid resilience, and enhance cross-border electricity trade. Offshore wind tenders are expected in 2027, and the Renewable Energy Resource Area program aims to add 2 GW of new capacity annually. Bayraktar also mentioned ongoing collaboration with Russia's Rosatom on the Akkuyu Nuclear Power Plant, which will eventually meet about 10% of Turkey's electricity needs.

The forum also addressed financial connectivity in Eurasia. Russian Deputy Finance Minister Ivan Chebeskov discussed enhancing regional capital markets, emphasizing deeper and more liquid markets. Efforts are underway to integrate market infrastructure within the Eurasian Economic Union and BRICS countries.

Moscow Exchange Chairman Viktor Zhidkov reported a shift toward domestic financing in Russian capital markets, with increased local activity in equities and corporate bonds. Gazprom's Ignat Dirks noted a significant reduction in foreign market financing, attributing this to the maturation of Russia's domestic financial market.

The forum, organized by Italy's Associazione Conoscere Eurasia, was supported by Turkey's MUSIAD and Ibn Haldun University, bringing together representatives from over 30 countries.