Eastern Mediterranean policies of Turkey in the context of oil and natural gas

The Mediterranean Basin, while neighboring the Middle East region, is a region with high potential in terms of hydrocarbon deposits. This potential makes the region an important hub for global energy markets. Therefore, the Eastern Mediterranean is of strategic importance for the countries in the region. The aim of this study is to evaluate the possible effects and consequences of oil and natural gas exploration/drilling activities in the Mediterranean on the energy and security policies of the region within the scope of the Eastern Mediterranean policies of Turkey and other littoral states. It also aims to identify the main factors shaping Turkey's energy and security policy and affecting its implementation. In the study, the oil and natural gas exploration activities of the regional states in the Eastern Mediterranean, the declaration of exclusive economic zones and the international dimensions of the problems arising in this context are analyzed. With its efforts, Turkey has changed the balance of power in the region. The fact that the cheapest and safest way to transport the natural gas to be extracted in the Eastern Mediterranean region to Europe and other markets is through Turkey is seen as a positive result for Turkey. This strengthens Turkey's role in the energy geopolitics of the region. On the other hand, in recent times, the United States has been making military build-ups, conducting exercises and providing some covert economic aid to Greece. This shows that a power struggle is taking place in the Eastern Mediterranean. In conclusion, the developments in the Eastern Mediterranean have significantly altered the energy and security balances of the region. Although it is too early to see the long-term effects of these developments, Turkey's role in the region is likely to become more important. Keywords: Mediterranean, Eastern Mediterranean, Turkey, Oil, Natural Gas