Split:Cyprus President Nikos Christodoulides emphasized the significance of the Great Sea Interconnector (GSI) for enhancing the EU's energy security during the 13th MED9 Summit in Croatia. He addressed various topics including connectivity, the EU's new Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF), climate change, and developments in the Middle East.

According to Cyprus News Agency, President Christodoulides focused on stability, security, connectivity, and energy security in the Mediterranean and Europe. He discussed Europe's energy security, Cyprus' role in this effort, and the importance of connectivity for Cyprus as the EU's southeasternmost member.

The President stressed the necessity for Mediterranean EU member states to reinforce their regional influence in European policies through the new MFF, which should support areas such as migration, cohesion policy, and infrastructure. He highlighted the GSI's significance for the EU's energy security and its potential benefits, also linking it to the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC).

Christodoulides underscored the value of good-neighborly relations and regional cooperation, citing initiatives that promote stability and peace. He mentioned the establishment of the regional aerial firefighting centre, CRAFS, in Cyprus with EU support.

During a thematic discussion on sustainable development in the Mediterranean, he presented Cyprus' Eastern Mediterranean and Middle East Climate Change Initiative (EMME-CCI) and CRAFS as examples of regional cooperation. He emphasized Cyprus' commitment to developing synergies with neighboring countries to tackle climate and environmental challenges.

In a meeting with Jordan's Crown Prince, discussions covered Middle Eastern developments, with Christodoulides advocating support for Jordan and Egypt due to their regional importance. He also called for EU action to prevent a security vacuum in Lebanon.

Christodoulides highlighted Cyprus' humanitarian role, referencing the Amalthea maritime corridor for aid delivery and civilian evacuation from conflict areas. On the sidelines, he met with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen to discuss the Cyprus problem and steps toward Cyprus' full accession to the Schengen Area.