Nicosia:Cyprus has completed all necessary procedures within its jurisdiction concerning the NAVTEX for initiating seabed surveys related to the Great Sea Interconnector (GSI), President Nikos Christodoulides announced. The President emphasized that the matter is being handled discreetly in collaboration with Greece and France.

According to Cyprus News Agency, President Christodoulides confirmed that the planned £25 million payment to Greece's Independent Power Transmission Operator (IPTO) for the electricity interconnection project is on schedule. He made these statements during the annual General Assembly of the Association of Large Investment Projects in Nicosia, where he was questioned about developments concerning the NAVTEX, essential for commencing the seabed surveys.

The President remarked that public discussions on this matter should be limited, as there is an informal consensus with the Greek Prime Minister and the French President on maintaining discretion. He assured that the Republic of Cyprus has fulfilled its responsibilities.

Regarding the timing of the £25 million payment to IPTO, the President stated that everything is proceeding according to plan, with the government adhering to existing agreements. "We are taking the necessary actions and, away from the public spotlight, we are doing what we need to do," he noted.

The GSI is a planned subsea electricity cable that will connect Cyprus, Greece, and potentially Israel, aiming to end Cyprus' energy isolation and integrate it into the European electricity network. This project, developed by Greece's IPTO, involves arrangements between Cyprus and Greece for its implementation and financing and has received European Union support as a Project of Common Interest.

The project has encountered delays and challenges concerning cost-sharing, financial viability, and geopolitical issues. The seabed surveys, requiring a NAVTEX, are a critical step forward in its progress.

Additionally, President Christodoulides addressed the Turkish Cypriot response to Cyprus' approach to the European Union regarding a proposed natural gas pipeline between Turkey and the Turkish-occupied areas of Cyprus. He asserted that Nicosia had acted appropriately, labeling the pipeline an illegal action and noting the EU's stance and specific démarches towards Turkey.