Energy in Turkey’s International Affairs and the Race for Southern Corridor

Energy issues are leaving an imprint on Turkey’s foreign policy agenda in surrounding regions. Energy Minister Taner Yildiz has been handling a heavy portfolio filled with projects that are by no means related to energy alone. Almost all the major projects Yildiz has been working on to realize Turkey›s energy aspirations have direct ramifications on the country’s far-from-smooth relationships with some of its neighbors, as well as the EU and other international actors. This assertive diplomatic agenda has been driven by two complementary motivations: to meet Turkey’s soaring energy needs, and to assert itself as a hub that will help increase its clout in the international system.