Putin says Türkiye's gas hub is still on agenda
Russian President Vladimir Putin reaffirmed on Saturday that the proposed Russian "gas hub" in Türkiye remains a priority on their agenda.
The plan aims to establish an electronic platform for gas sales in Türkiye. The initiative comes as Russia seeks alternative routes for its energy exports following significant reductions in European imports due to its actions in Ukraine.
Putin mentioned that he and Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan have scheduled a phone call on Wednesday to discuss the matter further.
"The gas hub in Türkiye is a priority for us," Putin said at a press conference. "We are ready to work with our Turkish partners to make this project a reality."
The gas hub would be located in the Black Sea region and would allow Russia to export gas to Europe and other markets. The project is still in the early stages of planning, but it has the potential to be a major boost for the Turkish economy.
Russia has been looking for ways to reduce its reliance on European gas buyers since the start of the war in Ukraine. The European Union has imposed sanctions on Russia's energy sector, and many European countries have pledged to reduce their reliance on Russian gas.
The gas hub in Türkiye could help Russia to diversify its export markets and reduce its dependence on Europe. The project could also help to boost Türkiye's economy, which has been struggling in recent years. (ILKHA)