Minister of Energy and Natural Resources Bayraktar announced that natural gas exports to Nakhchivan will commence this week.

Minister of Energy and Natural Resources Alparslan Bayraktar mentioned that a new point would be added to Turkey’s natural gas exports after Bulgaria and Greece. During his visit to Moscow, Russia, to conduct negotiations, Minister Bayraktar responded to questions related to the agenda. Discussing their meeting with Russian Deputy Prime Minister Aleksandr Novak and Energy Minister Sergey Tsivilyev, Bayraktar stated, “In addition to how we can enhance our existing cooperation and trade volume, we also have new topics on our agenda.” Bayraktar expressed Russia’s interest in the nuclear power plant project planned to be built in Sinop, mentioning that they are currently focused on bringing the first reactor in Akkuyu online as soon as possible, further noting, “We had discussions with Rosatom today regarding this matter.” Highlighting the economic competitiveness of Turkmen gas brought to Turkey at a competitive price, Bayraktar also stated, “The arrival of Turkmen gas in Turkey is very valuable. We will supply gas to approximately 1.5 million households this year.”

EXPORT OF GAS TO NAKHCHIVAN COMMENCES
Bayraktar explained that they provide natural gas entry to Turkey from 14 different points and stated, “We also have export points. One of them is Bulgaria, one is Greece, and now we are adding another one. We are starting to export natural gas to Nakhchivan. The Iğdır-Nakhchivan pipeline is already completed. Hopefully, there will be a ceremony with the participation of President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan and President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev. This week, we will have established a new connection for Turkey with this natural gas pipeline. The gas needs of Nakhchivan will be met through Turkey.” Bayraktar also mentioned that the Iraq-Turkey oil pipeline has been ready for operation since October 4, 2023, for approximately 1.5 years. He noted that it is possible for Iraqi oil to reach the world markets through Turkey.