Israel and Turkey are discussing the construction of a gas pipeline as an alternative to Russian energy supplies to Europe; however, according to government and industry officials in both countries, it would require complicated maneuvering to reach any deal, Reuters reported.
The idea, first conceived years ago, is to build a subsea pipeline from Turkey to Israel's largest offshore natural gas field, Leviathan. Gas would flow to Turkey and on to southern European neighbors looking to diversify away from Russia.
Last year, the European Union imported 155 billion cubic meters of Russian gas, nearly 40 percent of its consumption.
Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan said last week that gas cooperation was "one of the most important steps we can take together for bilateral ties," and told reporters he was ready to send top ministers to Israel to revive the pipeline idea that has lingered for years.
A senior Turkish official said talks have been ongoing since Israeli President Isaac Herzog visited Ankara in early March, and "concrete decisions" on the proposed route and the organizations involved could follow in the coming months.
Israeli Energy Minister Karine Elharrar told Ynet news on Sunday many considerations had yet to be discussed, including the finances.
"It needs to be found economically feasible, which is not something self-evident," she said.