Nice: Our common task is to transform the Mediterranean Sea from a region of competing claims into a platform for cooperation, President of the Republic Nikos Christodoulides said on Monday at the Summit ‘For a More Connected Mediterranean’ that took place in Nice, France.
According to Cyprus News Agency, President Christodoulides emphasized the need for leaders to jointly advance three forms of strategic connectivity: physical, energy, and digital. He highlighted the importance of strengthening regional infrastructure, such as roads, ports, and modern logistics, while ensuring that progress remains sustainable.
On the topic of energy connectivity, he noted that the Eastern Mediterranean is becoming increasingly significant in Europe’s evolving energy landscape, with new hydrocarbon discoveries and vast renewable potential. This transformation positions the region as a key energy corridor and a potential hub for cross-continental energy cooperation, promoting geopolitical stability. President Christodoulides expressed his belief that energy should be a source of cooperation, offering mutually beneficial outcomes for involved parties, advancing countries, the region, and societies.
Addressing digital connectivity, the President pointed out the Mediterranean’s untapped potential to serve as a digital bridge between continents, which requires investment, trust, and shared standards. He assured that Cyprus is ready to contribute by working with partners to promote secure digital infrastructure and literacy.
In his concluding remarks, President Christodoulides described the Mediterranean as more than a shared sea, but a shared destiny. He called for seizing the moment to pursue connectivity that empowers economies, respects the environment, and unites peoples. Cyprus, he stated, stands ready to partner with those who believe in multilateralism, cooperation, and a rules-based international order.
On the sidelines of the Summit, President Christodoulides engaged in brief discussions with French President Emmanuel Macron, Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis, and other leaders present at the Summit, as noted in a written statement by Viktoras Papadopoulos, Director of the Press Office of the President.