Ankara announces gas pipeline project to TRNC and calls for an "energy route through Turkey"

TRNC Prime Minister Unal Ustel announced in Ankara the launch of a new phase of energy cooperation with Turkey, including plans for the construction of a gas pipeline intended to connect Turkey with the TRNC. The statement was made at a joint press conference with Turkish Vice President Cevdet Yilmaz.

According to Ustel, the project is viewed as part of a long-term strategy to ensure the TRNC's energy supply and has already been included in the agenda of bilateral negotiations. He noted that the gas would initially be used for electricity generation, which he claimed would reduce the cost of energy and increase the stability of supply.

At the same time, it is reported that the feasibility study for the electricity transmission line project between Turkey and the TRNC, which has been under discussion for several years, has been completed.

Ustel stated that in the process of implementing energy initiatives, regulatory and technical difficulties arise at the level of European energy structures, in particular from ENTSO-E. He expressed confidence that Ankara would be able to overcome these obstacles.

During his speech, he also emphasized that the energy projects have strategic importance for the entire Eastern Mediterranean and urged "not to politicize" energy infrastructure issues. According to him, the most "effective and sustainable" route for the TRNC's energy supply is delivery via Turkey.

Economic cooperation programs up to 2026 were discussed separately, including support for tourism, agriculture, industry, and infrastructure. Ustel announced plans for the accelerated construction of healthcare, education, and social housing facilities, with the goal of completing a number of projects in 2026.

Regarding the Cyprus issue, the TRNC Prime Minister reaffirmed the stance in favor of a two-state model, stating that "a long-term solution is only possible with the recognition of the equal status of the parties."

The statements were made against the backdrop of ongoing discussions about the future of the Eastern Mediterranean energy infrastructure, where the Republic of Cyprus and the EU are already implementing their own plans to diversify energy sources and integrate into European networks.