Blinken Says "Turkey a Key NATO Ally", Erdogan Slams Vaccine Nationalism at UNGA

LOCAL NEWS

• US Sec of State Blinken says "Turkey is an important NATO ally, and discussions included joint efforts on Afghanistan and regional issues of concern." Syria and the Caucasus were also discussed, but nothing on S-400s or patriot/F-35s
  • at the UNGA Erdogan says vaccine nationalism is disgraceful and still being carried out. Also says Turkey has no capability nor patience left for new immigration waves. Also notes that the Paris Climate Accords will be sent to parliament next month for ratification
• Turkey to hold talks with UAE officials today on energy investment after years of poor relations which now appear to be thawing.
  • Turkey's natgas consumption is expected to be 60bn cubic meters In 2021 (7th most globally), with rising prices becoming a challenge for Turkey
• Turkey's natgas futures market is set to open on Oct 1 and help participants hedge better against fluctuating prices. Resources Chair says this is a key milestone for Turkey, bringing it closer to being a natgas trading hub.
  • 3-5bn cubic meters is planned for production in the Black sea by 2023, but could move to 15-30bn to reduce Turkish imports by 30%
• Pro-Kurdish HDP welcomes inclusion by the CHP following its voiced support for non-closure of the party, saying the HDP should play a key role in finding a solution to Turkey's problems with the PKK rather then being banned.
  • Says the CHP comments could create a positive effect on reviving a discussion that has been suppressed for some time
• HealthMin Koca says 68% of Turkey's adult population (18+) have received two jabs. Turkey reports 29,338 new cases & 260 deaths overnight.