The agreement reached on Wednesday at the EU Environment Council in Luxembourg on the ‘Fit for 55’ legislative package, in the framework of efforts to address climate change constitutes a very important step towards the implementation of the European Green Deal, Government Spokesperson Marios Pelekanos says in a written statement.
He notes that during the intensive negotiations that took place, Cyprus managed to achieve the recognition of its particularities as an island Member State and, therefore, the inclusion in the agreement of special provisions concerning, ia, its air and maritime connectivity, its different starting point in the energy sector and its status as a maritime state.
Noting the target to reduce net emissions by 55% by 2030, he adds, that Cyprus has secured relevant facilities in relation to its particularities, so that the cost will not be disproportionate”.
Regarding shipping, Pelekanos notes that Cyprus has managed to secure increased revenue through the auction of emissions allowances and refers to the integration of its proposal to reward the use of sustainable aviation fuel which is expected to contribute significantly to the green transition on a pan-European level.
“Cyprus expects the agreement to be finalized during the negotiations with the European Parliament, which are expected to begin next autumn,” he continues.
This positive development for Cyprus, he says, comes as a continuation of the Conclusions adopted by the EU Summit last May.
Source: Cyprus News Agency