Nicosia: The Government of Cyprus emphasized the critical need for the implementation of specific conditions by the implementing body to ensure the viability of the Cyprus-Greece electricity interconnection project. This call was made on Thursday, urging for the prompt fulfillment of these conditions to advance the project.
According to Cyprus News Agency, Government Spokesman Konstantinos Letymbiotis clarified that there are no disagreements with the Greek Government, reiterating the strategic importance of the project for Cyprus, Greece, and the EU. However, he highlighted that the project’s viability is contingent upon the timely execution of agreed obligations by the implementing body.
Letymbiotis stated at a press briefing in Nicosia, “It is the longstanding position of the Government that the electricity interconnection project is of strategic importance for the Republic of Cyprus. At the same time, it is clear that the viability of this project is directly linked to, and depends on, specific conditions undertaken by the implementing body, and we expect the implementation of those conditions.”
He dismissed media reports from Greece suggesting that Cyprus was abandoning the project, asserting Nicosia’s clear and unified stance that the project should proceed once the agreed conditions are met.
Recognizing the project’s geopolitical and strategic significance, Letymbiotis noted that planning commenced in 2011, with strong support and funding from the EU.
He also confirmed that the European Public Prosecutor’s Office has initiated an investigation into the project following complaints, and the Government anticipates a swift conclusion to determine any findings.
In Athens, Greek Government Spokesman Pavlos Marinakis commented on the same issue, stating that Greece has not received any notification from the European Public Prosecutor’s Office regarding the Great Sea Interconnector.
Marinakis added that Greece will seek further details from Nicosia regarding its intentions for the project’s implementation. While Athens considers the project strategically important, questions linger about its financial viability and cost-sharing, following remarks by Cyprus’ Minister of Finance.
He reiterated Greece’s support for Cyprus on national matters but stressed the necessity of addressing the project’s economic considerations, noting mixed signals from Nicosia.