Qatar has commenced natural gas supplies to Syria via Jordan to combat severe electricity shortages, pledging an initial output of 400 megawatts daily. This initiative, part of a collaboration with Jordan and the UN Development Programme, aims to restore essential energy access to cities like Damascus and Homs. Key stakeholders emphasize the project as a pivotal move toward addressing energy needs in the region.
Qatar has initiated the supply of natural gas to Syria through Jordan in response to the country’s pressing electricity shortages and ongoing power outages. As detailed by the state news agency QNA, this initiative forms part of a collaborative agreement with Jordan and the United Nations Development Programme.
Under the terms of this agreement, Qatar commits to deliver natural gas that will produce 400 megawatts of electricity daily, with plans to incrementally boost output at the Deir Ali power plant in Syria. The generated electricity will be allocated to multiple cities within Syria, including the capital Damascus and others such as Homs and Latakia.
Fahad Hamad Hassan Al-Sulaiti, the head of the Qatar Fund for Development, emphasized the significance of this initiative, stating that it represents a crucial advancement in addressing the energy requirements of the Syrian populace. Furthermore, he noted the shared dedication among all parties involved to foster regional cooperation for mutual benefit.
The interim authorities in Syria have faced significant challenges in supplying electricity to residents since the ouster of former President Bashar al-Assad in December, amid the extensive deterioration of infrastructure resulting from over thirteen years of civil conflict. Previously, Damascus relied heavily on oil imports from Iran for its power generation needs, but those supplies have been disrupted following changes in government leadership.
In conclusion, Qatar’s provision of natural gas to Syria, facilitated through Jordan, aims to alleviate significant electricity shortages in the country. This collaborative effort not only promises to enhance energy production but also signifies regional cooperation and support amidst ongoing challenges faced by Syria’s interim authorities. With a planned increase in electricity production, this initiative holds potential benefits for several key regions in Syria, previously hindered by inadequate power infrastructure.
Original Source: www.aljazeera.com
