Türkiye and Syria to Sign Maritime Jurisdiction Agreement

Türkiye and Syria to Sign Maritime Jurisdiction Agreement

Turkish Minister of Transport and Infrastructure, Abdulkadir Uraloğlu, announced that Turkey and Syria are set to sign an agreement on maritime jurisdiction areas. This development is viewed as a significant move with the potential to impact the geopolitical balance in the Eastern Mediterranean. 

Minister Uraloğlu's Statement

Speaking at a program organized by the Anadolu Broadcasters Federation, Minister Uraloğlu revealed that Turkey is working on an urgent action plan in Syria covering air, rail, road, and communication services. He also emphasized the activation of Syrian airports and confirmed that a maritime jurisdiction agreement is on the agenda. 

Strategic Importance of the Eastern Mediterranean

The Eastern Mediterranean has been a hotspot in international politics due to its rich hydrocarbon resources and strategic location. Turkey's 2019 maritime jurisdiction agreement with Libya shifted regional dynamics significantly. A similar agreement with Syria could further strengthen Turkey's influence in the region. 

Reactions from Greece and the Greek Cypriot Administration

The possibility of a maritime jurisdiction agreement between Türkiye and Syria has sparked concerns in Greece and the Greek Cypriot Administration. Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis and Greek Cypriot leader Nikos Christodoulides reportedly informed the European Union about the matter. Mitsotakis compared the situation to Turkey's 2019 deal with Libya, expressing similar apprehensions. 

Türkiye's Role in the Region

Following political changes in Syria, Türkiye has played a crucial role in the region's reconstruction. Minister Uraloğlu highlighted that Türkiye is implementing action plans in transportation and communication within Syria. Additionally, the Birecik-Aleppo power line has been restored, supplying electricity to approximately 150,000 households when fully operational. 

Conclusion and Outlook

A maritime jurisdiction agreement between Türkiye and Syria could mark a significant step in sharing energy resources and defining maritime boundaries in the Eastern Mediterranean. This move has the potential to reshape regional policies and spark new diplomatic processes among involved parties.