Nicosia: The United States has expressed its support for the Republic of Cyprus' plans concerning hydrocarbon extraction, energy interconnections including the Great Sea Interconnector (GSI), and regional energy security, according to Cyprus' Minister of Energy, Commerce, and Industry, Michalis Damianos, following his recent visit to the US.
According to Cyprus News Agency, Damianos highlighted that his trip was filled with significant engagements, including participation in the Eastern Mediterranean Gas Forum and the Atlantic Council, where global and East Mediterranean energy issues were deliberated. He held important meetings with US government officials and those from the Eastern Mediterranean, including Egypt's Minister of Petroleum and Mineral Resources, Karim Badawi. Damianos also engaged with high-level representatives from oil and gas firms and met with Jarrod Agen, the White House's energy advisor, in Washington.
During the 3+1 partnership meeting in Houston, involving Cyprus, Greece, Israel, and the United States, Damianos conducted a bilateral discussion with US Secretary of Energy, Chris Wright. "It was reaffirmed that the energy plans of the Republic of Cyprus are being pursued within a framework of cooperation, understanding, and support from our partners in the region-Israel and Greece-as well as with the support of the United States," Damianos told CNA.
The US Secretary conveyed intentions for broader collaboration with Cyprus, indicating a strengthening relationship over time. The Minister elaborated that the US support encompasses hydrocarbon extraction, with American companies playing an active role in the region, and broader energy plans, including energy interconnections.
"We discussed hydrocarbon extraction and electricity interconnections-there is therefore support from the US side, including for the GSI, which also constitutes a starting point for IMEC. We also discussed issues of regional energy security, with the significant US presence supporting Cyprus-Greece-Israel relations regarding stability in the region," Damianos explained. He emphasized the need for Cyprus to advance its energy plans, given the US assurances of support.
Regarding the East Med Energy Center (EMEC), Damianos emphasized its importance in demonstrating cooperation among the four countries on expertise and training in hydrocarbons. He noted that Rice University in Houston is a leader in energy-related matters. Addressing critiques about concessions to hydrocarbon exploitation companies in Cyprus' EEZ, the Minister stated that Cyprus is progressing directly with these companies and clarified that the Republic will not financially invest but will receive a share of the extraction proceeds.
He pointed out the urgency to commence extraction while considering all factors and ensuring the benefits for Cyprus, underscoring the necessity of moving forward with US support despite there being no current revenue from natural gas.