The Duran Podcast Qatar-Syria gas pipeline
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Jan 8, 2025 Dive into the complex world of natural gas pipelines as historical proposals collide with modern realities. Discover how the Syrian civil war complicates Qatar's aspirations for a gas pipeline to Europe. Examine the interplay of geopolitical shifts, especially with the EU moving away from Russian gas, and how that opens doors for Qatar. The discussion highlights the contrast between traditional pipeline routes and emerging LNG technologies, revealing the ongoing tug-of-war in international gas trading.
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Nabucco Pipeline's Failure
- The EU's dislike of Russian gas dependence led them to seek alternatives in the early 2000s.
- The Nabucco pipeline, intended to transport gas via Iran, failed due to political issues and a color revolution attempt in Iran.
Assad's Pipeline Proposal
- In 2009, a new plan emerged: a pipeline from Qatar through Saudi Arabia, Jordan, Syria, and Turkey to Europe.
- Assad considered the pipeline but wanted the hub in Syria, not Turkey, upsetting Erdogan.
Pipeline's Obsolete Status
- The Syrian war and Assad's status made the pipeline idea obsolete.
- With the rise of LNG, Qatar doesn't need the pipeline and would face instability and transit fees.