President of Türkiye Recep Tayyip Erdoğan stated at the 2nd Istanbul Natural Resources Summit (INRES) that Türkiye serves as a strategic bridge, transit hub, and connecting link between energy-rich regions and countries that need those resources. According to him, the country has firmly established itself as a reliable partner in energy transportation and an important participant in peace processes in the region.
“Türkiye plays a key role in ensuring global energy security. We have once again confirmed our indispensability in providing reliable energy supplies,” Erdoğan emphasized.
Extensive Infrastructure and Status as an Energy Hub
Türkiye possesses one of the most developed energy infrastructures in the region. The country receives natural gas from more than 50 companies from 39 countries. Thanks to modern LNG terminals, floating regasification units (FSRU), significant investments in underground storage facilities, and an extensive pipeline network, Türkiye has become one of Europe’s largest energy hubs.
Erdoğan noted that the country’s geographical location at the crossroads of Europe, Asia, and the Middle East, along with its proximity to major hydrocarbon reserves in the Caspian Sea, the Mediterranean, and the Middle East, allows Ankara to effectively connect energy producers and consumers. In the context of geopolitical instability (including risks in the Strait of Hormuz), Türkiye offers alternative and more reliable supply routes.
Cooperation with Syria in Oil and Mining Sectors
The President paid special attention to the development of relations with Syria’s new authorities. Erdoğan confirmed that Türkiye continues joint work with the Syrian government in the oil and mining industries.
“Our joint work with the new government of neighboring Syria in the fields of mining and oil continues,” he stated.
This cooperation is viewed as part of a broader strategy to strengthen Türkiye’s energy independence and support Syria’s recovery following the change of power. Earlier in 2026, plans were discussed to sign a special agreement that may include seismic exploration and hydrocarbon production on the Syrian Mediterranean shelf. Türkiye has already connected its gas transportation system to Syria’s and has begun supplying gas.
Strategic Context and Future Plans
Erdoğan’s speech fits into Türkiye’s long-term strategy to become a global player in the energy sector. Among the priorities are:
- Increasing domestic oil and gas production, including offshore.
- Launching and developing nuclear energy.
- Expanding renewable energy sources.
- Active participation in “Middle Corridor” projects, which are intended to become an alternative transport and energy route between East and West.
Erdoğan has repeatedly emphasized that Türkiye’s successes in the defense industry can be replicated in energy and mining. Full energy independence remains one of Ankara’s main strategic goals.
Reaction and Significance
The INRES Summit brought together ministers, company executives, investors, and representatives of international organizations. The event highlights Türkiye’s growing role not only as a transit country but also as a mediator in resolving regional conflicts through economic cooperation.
Analysts note that in the context of the restructuring of global energy flows following events in Syria and the Middle East, Türkiye’s position as a reliable hub is becoming particularly important for European consumers seeking to diversify their supplies.
Türkiye continues to actively develop partnerships with Azerbaijan, the countries of the Persian Gulf, and international companies, confirming its status as a key player in ensuring the energy security of the region and Europe.