Nicosia, Cyprus. Jet fuel availability, oil supply pressures and broader energy security concerns dominated talks as European transport ministers and officials met on Wednesday in Nicosia.
EU measures on supply chains and alternative routes
European sustainable transport commissioner Apostolos Tzitzikostas said the EU is working on measures to secure supply chains, including alternative fuel sourcing. He said the EU is also working to secure alternative supply routes for Europe, including jet fuel imports from the United States of America, and that emergency stockpiles may be used only if necessary.
Middle East instability and shipping disruptions
Tzitzikostas linked current pressures to instability in the Middle East and disruptions affecting global shipping routes, including the Strait of Hormuz. He said the ongoing obstruction of passage through the Strait of Hormuz affects every mode of transport in every member state, warning that without restored freedom of navigation the consequences would be devastating not only for Europe but also for the rest of the world.
Guidance on transport resilience and possible adjustments
Tzitzikostas said the EU is preparing guidance on transport resilience measures, including airport operations, fuel transfer rules and the use of public service obligations. He said temporary regulatory adjustments could be introduced if conditions deteriorate further.
‘Accelerate EU’ plan and fuel monitoring
He also referred to the ‘Accelerate EU’ plan, which includes a new fuel observatory to monitor supply and stock levels across member states.
Diplomacy and alternative fuels
Tzitzikostas said diplomacy is the only way out of the turmoil, and that the EU must accelerate the transition towards alternative fuels and strengthen energy independence.
Cyprus role in data collection
Transport minister Alexis Vafeades said Cyprus is contributing data collection on fuel activity as part of EU coordination efforts.
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