Europe is working hard to secure alternative supplies of natural gas to replace the Russian flows passing through Ukraine. Turkey is considered a potential option to increase exports to Europe, but Turkish Energy Minister Fatih Dönmez demands guarantees for 10 to 15 years to justify the investments.

Turkey presents itself as a possible solution to Europe’s energy crisis by increasing its natural gas exports, but it insists on obtaining long-term commitments before investing in the necessary infrastructure. Turkey also opposes the gas swap proposed by Europe, preferring instead a more “flexible” approach such as liquefied natural gas (LNG) deals.

Turkey’s plans face some challenges, including increasing the connection capacity between Turkey and Bulgaria and the possibility that Azerbaijan will not be able to increase its production sufficiently to meet growing European demand.

Turkey is making significant investments in new natural gas infrastructure and seeks to become a regional gas distribution hub. It is also entering into new gas agreements with other countries, such as the United States and Turkmenistan.