With the beginning of the new year, Turkey declared that 2025 will be the “year of discoveries,” according to what was announced by the Minister of Energy and Natural Resources, Alp Arslan Bayraktar, stressing the importance of energy policies and the ambitious projects being implemented to push the country towards complete energy independence.
During his recent visit to the natural gas processing facility in Filius, Zonguldak Province, northern Turkey, Bayraktar participated in a video conference with teams working in the fields of oil, mining and electricity across the country.
During the meeting, the minister stressed that efforts will focus on achieving new discoveries and expanding production, stressing that “Türkiye is moving forward to become a regional leader in the field of energy.”
Oil production is expanding
Bayraktar pointed out that daily oil production in Sirnak Province (south-eastern Turkey) exceeded 70,000 barrels per day, with expectations that production in the Jabbar region will increase to 100,000 barrels per day. The region – which was previously suffering from attacks by the Kurdistan Workers’ Party – is now witnessing a radical transformation, as it has become home to one of Turkey’s most important oil reserves.
The minister also announced plans to build a new regional directorate for the Turkish oil company TPAO in 2025, in support of efforts to boost production.
In a call with the team working on board the seismic research ship “Oruc Reis” off the coast of Somalia, Bayraktar stressed the importance of the operations conducted by Türkiye in marine exploration abroad. He said: “You are carrying out a vital mission for Somalia, and providing real hope to its people. This work of yours is sacred and of great importance.”
Electricity and regional stability support
In a move that reflects Turkish ambition to contribute to regional stability, Bayraktar announced plans to meet Syria’s electricity needs as part of Türkiye’s efforts to enhance stability in the region.
The minister explained that the Turkish Electricity Production Company “Ewash” will lead these efforts thanks to its great experience.
Bayraktar discussed with the work teams in the Sakarya gas field in the Black Sea plans to drill a new well at the beginning of the year, noting the importance of new exploration efforts in achieving the expected discoveries. He also expressed his hope to increase coal production in 2025 to support Türkiye’s energy independence.
Regarding marine projects, the minister praised the “Qanuni” drilling ship and its essential role in the Turkish exploration fleet. He said: “I hope that 2025 will be a year full of new discoveries thanks to the efforts of our drilling teams.”