Rize: Trkiye and Azerbaijan are working together to contribute to the reconstruction of Syria, as announced by Turkish Minister of Energy and Natural Resources Alparslan Bayraktar at the International Ayder Energy Forum in Rize. The Minister emphasized the role of energy resources as a bridge leading to peace and mutual prosperity.

According to Azerbaijan State News Agency, Bayraktar highlighted Syria as an example where a restoration and normalization process is underway after years of conflict. He stated that Trkiye and Azerbaijan are supplying gas and electricity to Syria to support its redevelopment. The Minister underscored the use of energy for peace and development, stressing the principle of mutual benefit.

Bayraktar also discussed Trkiye's efforts to reduce reliance on foreign energy sources while pursuing joint international initiatives. He noted that the country's energy demand has significantly increased, with electricity consumption expected to triple over the next three decades. Past energy imports have cost Ankara up to 70 billion dollars annually.

The Turkish Energy Minister detailed ongoing projects by Turkish energy companies in regions including Africa, the Middle East, and Central Asia. He emphasized the significance of nuclear energy, citing the Akkuyu Nuclear Power Plant as the realization of a long-standing dream. The plant's first reactor is set to begin electricity production this year, potentially fulfilling 10 percent of Trkiye's electricity needs.

Bayraktar outlined plans to construct additional nuclear plants in Sinop and Thrace, aiming for up to 20,000 megawatts of electricity production by 2050. He reaffirmed Trkiye's commitment to energy cooperation with neighboring countries and meeting European energy demands.