Indicators of Geo-economic Transformation in the Eastern Mediterranean
Document Type
Book
Publication Date
Fall 2023
Abstract
Europe's shift in energy import strategy after the Russo-Ukrainian conflict in February 2022 had a notable impact on the Eastern Mediterranean region. Despite the potential for increased natural gas exports, various factors, particularly geopolitical and geo-economic elements, acted as obstacles. These influences directly affected relationships among Eastern Mediterranean nations, influencing multiple energy transportation initiatives, encompassing current and potential pipelines, associated infrastructure for processing gas, and potential alternatives such as electricity export channels.
Within this landscape, issues arose concerning the establishment of an interconnected network of advantages across the region, tilting the balance toward cooperation over conflict. This shift prompted alterations in Turkey's approach toward Egypt and Israel, highlighting their rising influence at the expense of Turkey. While cooperative motives in the region expanded following the agreement outlining maritime borders between Lebanon and Israel, enabling both nations to benefit from energy discoveries, challenges persist in finalizing agreements on contested maritime borders and assessing the viability of specific energy export pipeline routes—all of which require time for realization.
This study aims to scrutinize stabilizing elements pivotal for a geopolitical shift and the geo-economic rationales that support such a transformation. Additionally, it seeks to predict potential alterations in the region's influence maps, addressing the central query: What evaluation can be made of alternative energy supplies available in the Eastern Mediterranean?
The study comprises four sections, each delving into distinct facets of the inquiry. The initial section appraises competing gas pipelines—EastMed, the Arab Gas Pipeline, and the Israel-Turkey pipeline. The subsequent segment evaluates facilities for gas liquefaction and gasification. The third section examines maps related to gas exploration and drilling, impacting territorial spheres of influence. Finally, the fourth section explores alternatives, particularly electricity export routes like the Asian-European line (via Israel) and the African-European line (via Egypt).
Recommended Citation
Moatamer Amin. "Indicators of Geo-economic Transformation in the Eastern Mediterranean." In Anticipated Geostrategic Shifts in the Eastern Mediterranean, edited by Ahmed Al-Safti and others, 204-246. The Emirates Center for Strategic Studies and Research. 2023.