Damianos stresses Cyprus electricity link needs in talks with US Senator Scott

Nicosia, Cyprus. Energy Minister Michael Damianos stressed Cyprus’ need for an electricity connection during talks on Friday with United States Senator Rick Scott, who visited the island to meet Cypriot officials.

Ending electricity isolation

Speaking after their meeting, Damianos said ending Cyprus’ energy isolation was a strategic priority because it remained the sole EU member without an electricity interconnection. He said they had highlighted the Great Sea Interconnector’s importance for secure energy supplies and stability across the wider region.

The project, if completed, would connect the electricity networks of Cyprus, Greece and Israel.

Natural gas and American companies

Damianos said the discussions also covered opportunities to develop natural resources in the eastern Mediterranean and the significance of connections across the region.

He described American energy companies’ operations within the Republic of Cyprus’ exclusive economic zone (EEZ) as a significant component of bilateral cooperation that supported the development of Cypriot gas fields. He cited Chevron’s involvement in Aphrodite and ExxonMobil’s work in Glafcos and Pegasus.

Regional partnerships

The minister said particular attention had been given to the 3+1 cooperation framework involving Cyprus, Greece, Israel and the United States. He said it could make a substantial contribution to regional energy security, safeguard critical infrastructure and help establish dependable energy routes to Europe.

According to Damianos, Cyprus actively backed the framework to advance shared initiatives and projects and improve coordination among its partners.

He said Cyprus sought stronger cooperation with the United States and its regional partners, grounded in international law and mutual benefit, with a shared objective of making the eastern Mediterranean safer, better connected and more diversified in its energy sources.