Turkish and Turkish-Cypriot officials signed preliminary agreements with several central European countries, including Turkey and Europe, regarding the transportation of gas in the Eastern Mediterranean. The agreements aim to supply Turkish gas primarily to Turkey and then to international markets. Turkey currently ranks fourth globally in natural gas buyers and already receives natural gas from Russia, Azerbaijan, Iran, and other countries. Turkey has also started producing domestic gas in the Black Sea. The agreements have the potential to bring significant benefits, including diversifying gas supplies for the EU and reducing dependence on Russia. Cyprus also hopes to supply gas to Turkey and Europe, while Turkey aims to become a major force in natural gas exchanges.