Energy connections between the Middle East and Europe and the green transition – when East meets West

Abstract

This article analyses the green energy connections between the Middle East and Europe from the perspective of the potential benefits for Romania. The historical energy interdependency created complex geopolitical relations between the countries of the two regions. The European Union’s objective to gain climatic neutrality by transitioning to clean energy is currently followed by a series of Middle Eastern countries (Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar and Jordan) with massive investments in this area. This leads to a strategic change in terms of energy security in both Europe and Oriental regions. The European Union and the mentioned Oriental countries developed similar long-term strategies for green electricity and hydrogen production to minimise the negative impact of fossil fuels. The paper emphasises the increasing role of energy diplomacy in solving potential geopolitical adversities and satisfying continuous social needs. The article also exposes some challenges and opportunities accompanying the green energy transition. Potential challenges include geopolitical tensions, security threats, policy harmonisation, and environmental concerns. These inconveniences are counterbalanced by intensified regional cooperation, socio-economic development, technological renewal, especially for the Middle East, and the transformation of energy diplomacy into a more flexible instrument in international relations.