ABSTRACT
This chapter looks into the Energy Charter Treaty (ECT) as a valuable international legal framework for the countries from Middle East and North Africa (MENA). The ECT of which the European Union (EU) and its member states are already members provides an international framework to enhance the rule of law on a global basis, including transition countries. It is equipped to play a key role in the Euro-Mediterranean energy market. The policy objective is to enhance the rule of law in the areas of investment, trade and transit. Foreign direct investments in the energy sector are very important for strengthening national and regional economies. Accession to the ECT by MENA countries would send out clear signals indicating the willingness to join an international energy community that enhances wider and deeper cooperation in the energy sector. The ECT's provisions on trade and transit are based on those of the World Trade Organization (WTO).
