Iran has commenced the transit of gas from Turkmenistan to Turkey as part of a swap agreement, enhancing gas supply in Iran’s northeast and reinforcing its status as a regional energy hub. Details of the agreement are still pending finalization, with analysts optimistic about its implications for energy cooperation in the region.
Iran has confirmed the commencement of gas transit from Turkmenistan to Turkey, as stated by Mohsen Paknejad, Iran’s Oil Minister. Under the existing swap agreement, Iran receives gas from Turkmenistan and delivers an equivalent amount to Turkey. This initiative is expected to enhance gas supply stability for Iranian customers in the northeast, where gas pressure has been traditionally low due to distance from production sites in southern Iran.
Paknejad emphasized that this agreement marks an important step for Iran, positioning it as a significant energy hub in the region. He stated, “This effort is a sign of government’s determination to expand energy diplomacy,” reflecting Iran’s strategic objectives. However, he also noted that particulars of the gas swap arrangement with both Turkmenistan and Turkey are pending finalization.
As reported by Neutral Turkmenistan, Turkmenistan’s gas company, Turkmengas, has initiated a deal with Turkey’s state-owned BOTAS to commence gas exports via Iran starting March 1. There was a conversation between Turkmenistan’s Chairman and Iranian President to celebrate this milestone in regional energy relations. Additionally, recent diplomatic engagements included a visit from Turkmenistan’s Foreign Minister to Iran.
Despite the progress, there has yet to be an official release regarding the volume and pricing of the gas supplied under the agreement. Notably, reports indicate that Turkmengas may utilize unused capacity in an Iranian pipeline to deliver approximately 4 billion cubic meters of natural gas annually to BOTAS. Iran has a history of establishing swap agreements with Turkmenistan for gas deliveries to its neighboring countries like Azerbaijan and Iraq. Analysts suggest that Turkey’s new import deal with Turkmenistan could facilitate the transshipment of natural gas to Europe from Azerbaijan.
In summary, Iran has initiated the transit of Turkmen gas to Turkey under a reciprocal agreement, aiming to improve regional energy stability and enhance its role as a central energy player. While certain details remain unconfirmed, the proceedings of this arrangement are indicative of Iran’s evolving energy diplomacy and collaboration with neighboring countries. The effective implementation of this gas deal stands to benefit both countries and the broader regional energy landscape.
Original Source: www.presstv.ir
