Prioritises the promotion of Projects of Common Interest of the highest importance for the European Union
Nicosia, 22 December, 2020 – The President of the Republic of Cyprus, Mr. Nicos Anastasiades, has reiterated his “full support” to the project of greatest importance EuroAfrica Interconnector during his address delivered at the “8th Energy Symposium 2020” in Nicosia, organised by the Institute of Energy for South-East Europe (IENE) and the communications conferences company Financial Media Way.
In his speech, the President briefly explained the energy strategy of the Republic of Cyprus, which is based, on the basis of a comprehensive strategic planning, with the aim of:
● lifting the energy isolation of Cyprus, through the mutually beneficial cooperation with countries of the greater neighbouring region;
● the development of an internal energy market and the gradual transition of Cyprus to green energy and a “cyclical economy”;
● the utilisation of hydrocarbon resources within the Republic’s Exclusive Economic Zone.
Energy Minister Ms. Natasa Pilidou, Speaking at the 8th Energy Symposium.
“In relation to the pillar of lifting the energy isolation of Cyprus, I remind you that the promotion of Projects of Common Interest of the utmost importance for the European Union was set as a priority.”
“We provide full support to the EuroAfrica Interconnector, which will connect Cyprus with Egypt and Greece via a submarine cable, which will essentially be the interconnected ‘electricity highway’ that connects Africa and the Middle East with Europe.”
Speaking at the 8th Energy Symposium, Energy Minister Ms. Natasa Pilidou referred to the strategic aspirations of the Republic of Cyprus, such as ensuring the energy supply of Cyprus, the transition to clean energy, based on the objectives of the EU “Green Deal” targets and the creation of a competitive energy market and the utilisation of domestic Renewable Energy Sources (RES).
The Minister of Energy also referred to the importance of the EuroAfrica Interconnector project, which will connect the electrical systems of Egypt, Cyprus and Greece, through a submarine cable.
As the developers of the EuroAfrica Interconnector project, which is implemented according to strict timeframes with the aim of its timely implementation by December 2023, we welcome the practical support expressed once again by President Nicos Anastasiades and Energy Minister Natasa Pilidou.
We remain faithful to our commitments both to the Republic of Cyprus for the lifting of the energy isolation of Cyprus as the last non-interconnected EU Member State, and to the Government of the Arab Republic of Egypt, which acknowledges the 2,000 megawatt project as the interconnected ‘electricity highway’ that connects Egypt, the Middle East and Africa with Europe through Cyprus.
Announcement – English Announcement – Greek Announcement – Arabic
