Deutsche Welle: Europe eyes Turkey as an energy supplier
For years, Turkey has been growing in importance for Europe when it comes to the delivery of oil and natural gas. In light of the Ukraine crisis, the West is hoping the country can become an additional energy supplier.
Turkey's proximity to the Caucasus, Central Asia, the Middle East and Europe makes the country an ideal center for energy distribution. Since the outbreak of the current political crisis in Ukraine, the country has come to the top of the list of strategic partners for Europe when it comes to importing oil and natural gas.
"We're observing increasing interest from European and international companies, particularly for the Turkish energy market," said Christian Grun of the Essen-based energy services company ConEnergy.
That interest stems from multiple factors. On the one hand, Turkey's economy grew by nearly 10 percent in 2010 and 2011. Furthermore, it has a young population - average age, 28 - which adds to the country's dynamism.