Houston, United States. Cyprus Energy Minister Michael Damianos said on Sunday that Cyprus has US support for its energy projects, including hydrocarbon extraction, electricity interconnections and regional energy security initiatives. He said the backing would help Cyprus advance its energy planning and development goals.
Meetings during energy forum events
Damianos told the Cyprus News Agency that the visit was a “big week of contacts”, with discussions focused on energy developments in the Levant.
The meetings took place on the sidelines of the Eastern Mediterranean Gas Forum and events organised by the Atlantic Council. They included talks with senior US officials, regional energy ministers and representatives of major energy companies.
Talks with US and regional officials
Among those Damianos met were US Secretary of Energy Chris Wright, White House energy adviser Jarrod Agen and Egyptian Minister of Petroleum and Mineral Resources Karim Badawi.
Referring to a bilateral meeting with Wright held in Houston within the framework of the 3+1 cooperation format involving Cyprus, Greece, Israel and the US, Damianos said support was expressed for Cyprus’ wider energy agenda.
“It was reaffirmed that the energy plans of Cyprus are within the framework of cooperation, understanding and support from our partners in the region, Israel and Greece, but also with the support of the USA,” he said.
Focus on projects and regional security
According to the minister, the discussions covered “hydrocarbon extraction, electrical interconnections, so there is also support from the American side, including GSI, which is also the principle for IMEC,” he said.
He added that regional stability and cooperation between Cyprus, Greece and Israel were also part of the discussions, with Washington continuing to support initiatives aimed at strengthening energy security in the Eastern Mediterranean.
Response to criticism
Damianos said the support expressed by US officials should allow Cyprus to move ahead with its energy planning and development objectives.
Addressing criticism regarding agreements with hydrocarbon companies, he said the government is pursuing a more direct approach with operators active in Cyprus’ exclusive economic zone.
