Heraklion:The process of resuming surveys for cable laying in the Eastern Mediterranean appears to be in its final stages. The French-flagged research vessel "Abeille Marengo" has departed from Naples and is expected to reach Heraklion, Crete, on Tuesday, 27 October.

According to Cyprus News Agency, the vessel's operator, Nexans, has applied for a license to conduct underwater surveys, both oceanographic and bathymetric, between Crete and Cyprus to facilitate the laying of the GSI cable.

Once "Abeille Marengo" arrives in Heraklion and necessary preparations are finalized, it will wait for the issuance of the NAVTEX before starting the surveys. The NAVTEX is anticipated to be issued in early November.

Additionally, the research vessel KOBI RUEGG departed from Heraklion on Friday afternoon to begin surveys in a similar area of the Greek continental shelf. This is for the laying of another telecommunications cable connecting Saudi Arabia with Greece, with a NAVTEX issued by the Heraklion station valid from 23 to 30 October.