Qatar Initiates Natural Gas Supply to Syria to Alleviate Energy Crisis

Qatar has initiated natural gas supplies to Syria via Jordan, providing 400 megawatts of electricity daily to mitigate electricity shortages. This partnership involves Jordan and the United Nations Development Programme, with plans for gradual production increases at the Deir Ali power plant. The initiative aims to support various Syrian cities, highlighting a commitment to address the region’s energy needs amid ongoing infrastructure challenges.

Qatar has commenced the supply of natural gas to Syria via Jordan, aiming to address the country’s persistent electricity shortages and power outages. As reported by the state news agency QNA, this initiative is part of a collaborative agreement with Jordan and the United Nations Development Programme.

Under the terms of the agreement, Qatar will facilitate natural gas supplies to generate 400 megawatts of electricity daily, with plans to gradually enhance production at Syria’s Deir Ali power plant. The electricity produced will be distributed to several cities across Syria, including the capital, Damascus, as well as Rif Dimashq, As Suwayda, Daraa, Al Qunaitra, Homs, Hama, Tartous, Latakia, Aleppo, and Deir ez-Zur.

Fahad Hamad Hassan Al-Sulaiti, head of the Qatar Fund for Development, remarked that, “This initiative represents a pivotal step towards meeting the Syrian people’s energy needs and reflects a shared commitment among all parties to work together for the benefit of the region,” according to QNA.

The interim authorities in Syria have faced significant challenges in supplying electricity to their citizens since the removal of former President Bashar al-Assad in December. The prolonged civil war, spanning over 13 years, has severely undermined the country’s infrastructure. Previously, Damascus relied heavily on Iranian oil for power generation, but those supplies ceased following the political changes.

In conclusion, Qatar’s natural gas supply to Syria signifies a collaborative effort to alleviate the country’s energy crisis. By generating substantial electricity through this initiative, it not only addresses current shortages but also indicates a commitment from multiple stakeholders to support the region. The move is particularly crucial given Syria’s ongoing infrastructure challenges since the civil war and the cessation of Iranian oil supplies.

Original Source: www.aljazeera.com