Turkey and Qatar will supply power ships to Syria to help improve electricity shortages after the USA eased sanctions. With the civil war having devastated infrastructure, the ships are expected to generate 800 megawatts, aiding an electricity system in desperate need of support.
Syria’s electricity infrastructure has suffered immensely due to over 13 years of civil war, leading to severe power shortages. Recently, Khaled Abu Dayy, the head of Syria’s national electricity company, announced that Turkey and Qatar would dispatch two power ships to alleviate the electricity crisis, with expected generation capacity of 800 megawatts. This contribution represents half of Syria’s current electricity production. Plans are underway to establish power lines to facilitate electrical transport from the ships’ docking site, though specifics remain undisclosed.
Both Turkey and Qatar have shown support for the Syrian opposition and reestablished diplomatic relations following President Bashar al-Assad’s departure to Russia. Turkey has fostered connections with the Hayat Tahrir al-Sham rebel group, maintaining influence over the situation in Syria. In late December, a delegation from Turkey’s energy ministry visited Damascus to further discuss energy cooperation.
As the civil war displaced nearly three million Syrians into Turkey, the potential to return home has become a topic of hope since the regime’s apparent weakening. Nevertheless, while the transitional government in Damascus pushes for the lifting of sanctions, Western nations remain cautious, emphasizing the need for oversight in governance before relaxed restrictions. Recently, the United States indicated it would permit electricity and fuel donations to Syria for a duration of six months to support the recovery of its energy sector, which has faced an estimated $100 billion in losses since 2011.
The civil war in Syria, which began in 2011, has severely impacted the country’s infrastructure, particularly in the energy sector. With power stations and energy distribution networks destroyed, residents have endured extensive power outages, often lasting over 20 hours daily. Recent geopolitical shifts, including the easing of certain sanctions by the United States, have prompted neighboring nations like Turkey and Qatar to assist in addressing Syria’s electrical supply crisis. The collaboration comes at a crucial time as Syria seeks to rebuild and regain stability after years of conflict.
In summary, Turkey and Qatar are sending power generating ships to Syria to enhance the country’s electricity supply, which has been critically compromised by a prolonged civil war. This initiative not only provides immediate relief but also signifies a shift in regional diplomatic relations following Bashar al-Assad’s regime change. While the path to a rebound for Syria’s power infrastructure looks hopeful, the overall recovery remains contingent on international dynamics and the easing of sanctions.
Original Source: www.newarab.com
