President Christodoulides sees progress in GSI talks and interest from other countries

President Nikos Christodoulides has confirmed that there has been progress in discussions regarding the Great Sea Interconnector (GSI) project and highlighted interest from other countries, including the United Arab Emirates, following his recent visit there.

Speaking on the sidelines of an event in Larnaca on 12 September, President Christodoulides responded to criticism regarding delays in decision-making on the GSI, which will link Cyprus and Greece via an electrical connection. He assured that the government's focus is on future generations rather than short-term political gains.

He stressed that discussions were advancing positively and that decisions would be made based solely on the interests of the Cypriot people. Christodoulides also referred to an upcoming meeting he will have with Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis in Athens on 19 September, with the GSI project being a central topic of discussion.

"We are in daily contact, including yesterday and the day before, on this issue," he said.

Asked about Israel’s support for the project, President Christodoulides noted the Israeli Energy Minister’s recent statements but clarified that current talks focus on the Cyprus-Greece connection. He further noted that his trip to the United Arab Emirates on Wednesday involved discussions about energy collaboration, including the GSI.

When asked about Turkey’s objections to the defence cooperation agreement between Cyprus and the United States, the President emphasized the significance of the U.S. recognizing Cyprus' strategic role in the region. "Our decisions are not dictated by Turkey's actions or reactions," he added.

He reiterated finally, in response to another question, that he is not considering a Cabinet reshuffle.

(Source: CNA)