Turkey’s energy plans have returned to the forefront following renewed discussions in Ankara between Turkish officials and the leadership of the breakaway administration in the occupied areas of Cyprus over major infrastructure projects.
Electricity interconnection and gas projects
The talks involved Turkish Vice President Cevdet Yılmaz, the so-called “prime minister” Ünal Üstel, and Turkey’s Energy Minister Alparslan Bayraktar, focusing on strengthening energy security, expanding electricity generation capacity and advancing natural gas initiatives.
According to statements after the meeting, energy cooperation projects under consideration include mobile power generation units, technical preparations for natural gas infrastructure, as well as maintenance and upgrades of existing energy systems.
Yılmaz said the projects aim to reinforce what he described as the energy capacity of the breakaway administration, while also increasing electricity production and supporting broader gas supply plans. He also linked the initiatives to a wider political and strategic vision outlined by Ankara.
Üstel announced plans for a natural gas pipeline from Turkey to the occupied areas, describing it as a “project of the century”. He also said feasibility studies for an electricity interconnection have been completed, adding that he expects political obstacles to be overcome with Turkish backing.
He stated that natural gas would initially be used for electricity generation, to lower energy costs and improve supply stability. He also called on the Republic of Cyprus and the European Union not to obstruct the projects, arguing that the most viable energy route to the island runs through Turkey.
Political messaging and regional reactions
The renewed focus on energy cooperation between Turkey and occupied Cyprus comes amid ongoing regional discussions on alternative energy interconnections and broader energy security in the Eastern Mediterranean.
Üstel also reiterated the position supporting a two-state solution in Cyprus, insisting that any long-term settlement requires recognition of what he described as sovereign equality.
Also read: Cyprus issue among topics discussed by von der Leyen and Erdoğan
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