Qatar will supply natural gas to Syria to boost its energy sector, generating up to 400 megawatts of electricity. This initiative, backed by the U.S., comes amidst Syria’s economic crisis and evolving international sanctions. Developments with the Syrian Democratic Forces and Turkey’s energy interests further complicate the situation.
On March 13, a Qatari official announced that Qatar will provide natural gas to Syria to enhance the country’s energy sector. Khalifa Abdullah al-Mahmoud al-Sharif, Qatari Charge d’Affaires in Syria, stated that this initiative will deliver natural gas supplies through Jordan, generating an initial 400 megawatts of electricity, with plans for gradual increases in supply, supported by the Qatar Fund for Development.
According to Reuters, the U.S. endorses this initiative, indicating a strategic effort to increase Syria’s energy capabilities amid a dire economic crisis fueled by over a decade of conflict, sanctions, and territorial occupation. A U.S. official mentioned the project has “Washington’s approval,” highlighting its importance in potential energy recovery for Syria.
The Syrian government has expressed readiness to revitalize its energy sector. Ahmad Suleiman, Director of Public Relations at the Syrian Oil Ministry, confirmed that the ministry received multiple bids for crude oil tenders, proceeding with evaluations according to established specifications.
Last month, the European Union suspended certain sanctions on Syria, particularly those affecting energy, banking, and reconstruction, which had been imposed during Bashar al-Assad’s presidency. Concurrently, the UK lifted restrictions on Syria’s central bank, granting relief during a period marked by violent civilian massacres by Syrian government forces.
Syria recently signed agreements with the U.S.-backed Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), which play a key role in overseeing U.S. military presence in Syria’s oilfields. This partnership seeks to integrate the SDF into a reformed Syrian army, though the implications for oil field management remain uncertain.
Turkish Energy Minister Alparslan Bayraktar indicated interest in improving Syria’s energy infrastructure through electricity and oil projects. He mentioned plans for an oil pipeline connecting Syria to Türkiye, integrating it with the Iraq–Türkiye pipeline to strengthen regional energy cooperation.
The proposed Turkiye–Qatar natural gas pipeline, aimed at transporting Qatari gas through Jordan and Syria to Europe, was initially put forward in 2009 but was rejected by the prior Syrian regime, preceding the onset of the U.S. and Turkish-backed conflict in Syria.
In summary, Qatar’s commitment to support Syria’s energy sector via natural gas signifies a critical move towards energy recovery in light of economic challenges. The U.S. endorsement suggests a geopolitical alignment with the initiative. Additionally, changes in sanctions from the EU and UK reflect shifting dynamics in international relations with Syria. Furthermore, ongoing negotiations with the SDF and proposals from Turkey indicate a complex landscape surrounding Syria’s energy future.
Original Source: thecradle.co
