Strengthening Energy Ties: Cyprus and Israel Advance Joint Projects
In a significant move to bolster regional energy cooperation, Cyprus’ Energy Minister George Papanastasiou and his Israeli counterpart Eli Kohen have reaffirmed their commitment to advancing joint energy initiatives. The Great Sea Interconnector, an ambitious project to connect the electricity grids of Israel, Cyprus, and Greece, has been identified as a key focus for the current year.
The two ministers convened in Tel Aviv, where they acknowledged the strategic importance of the interconnector. Kohen highlighted that this link not only strengthens Israel’s position in the region but also contributes to the nation’s energy independence. Moreover, it serves as a response to Europe’s pressing need to diversify energy sources amidst an ongoing energy crisis. The submarine power cable is also expected to provide Israel with crucial support from the European power grid during emergencies.
During their meeting, Papanastasiou and Kohen explored various initiatives aimed at enhancing natural gas transmission infrastructure in the Eastern Mediterranean. This includes the Cyprus Gateway initiative, which proposes to channel Israeli and regional natural gas through Cyprus to European markets. The ministers also emphasized the urgency of resolving the Aphrodite – Ishai natural gas reservoir dispute.
A tour of Tel Aviv’s Reading Power Station was part of the ministers’ agenda, where they, along with energy experts, assessed the feasibility of establishing the underwater electricity connection at that location. Papanastasiou underscored the shared vision between Cyprus and Israel for the Eastern Mediterranean, viewing energy as a catalyst for peace, stability, and prosperity in the region.
Both ministers expressed a strong commitment to ensuring the timely completion of the Great Sea Interconnector. Papanastasiou also mentioned Cyprus’ potential role as a natural gas gateway to Europe, emphasizing the goal of creating a reliable East Med energy corridor that would aid in diversifying sources and routes for energy supply.
The partnership between Cyprus and Israel is poised to make significant strides in regional energy collaboration, with both nations keen on reaching a swift agreement on the Aphrodite – Ishai issue and on further developing their respective Exclusive Economic Zones (EEZs) for natural gas.