Amidst Ankara’s plans to expand its fleet for hydrocarbon exploration, Athens is closely monitoring the situation. Turkey has set its sights on the Black Sea for gas and oil exploration, with a focus on floating drilling vessels like the seventh-generation Abdulhamid Han.
Turkey’s Energy Minister has prioritized the Black Sea, followed by the Eastern Mediterranean and the Aegean, sparking concerns in Athens. The recent tensions near Kasos serve as a reminder of the delicate balance in the Eastern Mediterranean.
Meanwhile, the Turkish Petroleum Corporation is enhancing its hydrocarbon storage capabilities, including the purchase of a floating unit for production. This unit is currently en route to Istanbul, taking a safer route around Africa due to risks in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden.
Furthermore, Athens is keeping a close eye on Turkey’s exploration activities in areas like Libya and Somalia, noting potential political motivations behind these agreements.
Overall, the evolving situation in Turkey’s energy exploration poses challenges and opportunities in the region, shaping the dynamics between Turkey and its neighboring countries.