Qatar is set to provide natural gas to Syria to enhance its energy sector, supported by the US. Syrian authorities are open to revitalizing energy supplies amid an economic crisis, coinciding with lifted sanctions from the EU and UK. Discussions on integrating the Syrian Democratic Forces into military structures and potential Turkish energy projects reflect a complex geopolitical landscape.
On March 13, a Qatari official announced that Qatar will supply Syria with natural gas to enhance its energy sector. Khalifa Abdullah al-Mahmoud al-Sharif, Qatari Charge d’Affaires in Syria, stated that the initiative aims to generate electricity, starting from 400 megawatts and gradually increasing over time. This initiative has received support from the United States, marking a significant development in the region’s energy dynamics.
Syria is currently undergoing a profound economic crisis, attributed to over ten years of conflict, sanctions, and occupation. In light of this, Syrian authorities have expressed a commitment to revitalize their struggling energy sector. Ahmad Suleiman, Director of Public Relations at the Syrian Oil Ministry, indicated that the ministry has received multiple bids for a recent crude oil tender, with selected companies adhering to specified conditions.
Recent decisions by European Union countries to suspend certain sanctions against Syria, related to energy, banking, transportation, and reconstruction, highlight a shift in international relations. Similarly, the United Kingdom lifted sanctions impacting Syria’s central bank, which follows reports of violence against civilians by the Syrian government.
Additionally, the Syrian government has initiated a deal with the US-backed Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) concerning Syria’s oilfields. Ahmad Suleiman noted that preparations for transferring oil and gas wells in northeastern Syria controlled by the SDF may take considerable time.
Furthermore, Turkish Energy Minister Alparslan Bayraktar expressed interest in enhancing Syria’s energy infrastructure, specifically through projects related to oil and natural gas. He also mentioned the potential for an oil pipeline from Syria to Turkey, merging this initiative with the existing Iraq–Turkey pipeline. This comes after a previously proposed Qatari pipeline project aimed at transporting natural gas to Turkey and Europe was rejected by the former Syrian administration.
In conclusion, Qatar’s initiative to supply Syria with natural gas signifies a crucial step towards revitalizing the country’s energy sector amid its ongoing crisis. The renewed interest from international parties, evidenced by lifted sanctions and strategic partnerships, suggests a potential shift in Syria’s energy landscape. Nonetheless, the lasting impact of these developments, particularly concerning the management of oilfields and infrastructure, remains to be fully realized as negotiations and preparations continue.
Original Source: thecradle.co
