Turkey advances plans for a bidirectional natural gas pipeline to occupied Cyprus

Turkey has initiated preparatory works for the construction of a bidirectional natural gas pipeline connecting the Turkish mainland to the occupied territories of northern Cyprus. According to reports, the project is estimated to cost approximately 600 million euros, with completion targeted for 2028. A NAVTEX issued by Antalya on October 23, effective through December 31, confirms that a research flotilla is currently conducting seafloor surveys to facilitate the pipeline's installation, following seismic measurements by the vessel Oruc Reis.

Ankara asserts that no regional infrastructure project can proceed without its involvement, using this pipeline as a strategic tool to consolidate its influence and connect the occupied areas more firmly to the mainland. While the pipeline is designed for bidirectional flow, analysts note that the occupied north lacks gas production, suggesting the infrastructure aims to intercept or influence Eastern Mediterranean energy flows. The move coincides with the Republic of Cyprus advancing its own energy projects, specifically the signing of eight construction contracts for the Cronos field on October 26.

Nicosia has formally protested these actions to the European Union and the United Nations. While Turkey aims to bypass and challenge the sovereign designs of Greece and Cyprus through these developments, the Cypriot government has indicated that further energy-related developments within its Exclusive Economic Zone are imminent.