Washington, United States. Cyprus Energy Minister Michalis Damianos told the 10th Ministerial Meeting of the East Mediterranean Gas Forum that current geopolitical developments make deeper regional cooperation, diversified supply sources and routes, and stronger energy infrastructure essential. He said the Eastern Mediterranean could make a substantial contribution to Europe’s energy security as a reliable alternative source of supply.
Meeting in Washington
The meeting took place on Monday at the headquarters of the US Chamber of Commerce and brought together the energy ministers of the forum’s member states.
According to an announcement by the ministry, observers included US Energy Secretary Chris Wright, as well as representatives of the European Union and the World Bank.
Cyprus position on EMGF
During his intervention, Damianos highlighted the strategic role of the EMGF as a pillar of regional cooperation and energy security in the Eastern Mediterranean.
He reiterated the support of the Republic of Cyprus for the further development of the organisation and its long-term strategy.
Focus on natural gas and wider energy cooperation
The minister said natural gas should remain at the core of the forum’s activities, while cooperation should also expand into hydrogen, electricity interconnections and renewable energy sources.
He said current geopolitical developments require deeper regional cooperation, diversified supply routes and stronger energy infrastructure.
European dimension
Damianos said the Cyprus presidency of the Council of the European Union creates additional opportunities to strengthen dialogue and cooperation between the EU and countries in the region.
Joint declaration
According to the joint declaration adopted after the meeting, ministers and heads of delegations reaffirmed the importance of the EMGF as a key platform for dialogue and cooperation aimed at enhancing energy security and regional stability in an increasingly uncertain geopolitical environment.