This desperate need for wood was necessitated by the need to build a formidable fleet and, to a lesser extent, to provide the "factories" with a reliable supply of fuel. Given its large wooded areas, Syria was an attractive region, especially in light of its proximity to Egypt which reduced transportation costs. Furthermore, because it had extensive forest lands Syria was producing different kinds of wood that were suitable for the Pasha’s various needs. In a clear reference to its importance in this respect Ibrahim wrote to his father in the wake of the negotiations that eventually led to the "peace of Kütahia" in 1833 telling him that out of all lands in their possession they must not give up the three districts of Alaiye (Alanya), Adalia (Antalia) and Içel (Cilicia), all on the south coast of Anatolia.

XREF: Builds directly on loc 213 about Syria's strategic value lying in wood and timber, adding the specific concrete needs (shipbuilding and factory fuel) and naming the exact districts. Builds on: "Syria's strategic value to Egypt lay in its wood and timber."

Khaled Fahmy, All the Pasha_s Men_ Mehmed…, loc. 214