The European Commission has renewed its backing for the Greece-Cyprus electricity interconnection, with European Commissioner for Energy and Housing Dan Jorgensen describing the project as a strategic link and part of Europe's broader energy infrastructure network.
The comments followed a meeting in Luxembourg on Thursday with Cyprus Energy Minister Michalis Damianos and Greek Environment and Energy Minister Stavros Papastavrou on the sidelines of the EU Energy Council.
Jorgensen said the two ministers had informed him that the Great Sea Interconnector (GSI) project was moving forward. He described the interconnector as one of Europe's "Energy Highways", saying it would end Cyprus' energy isolation, strengthen regional security of supply and help reduce energy costs.
Opposition DISY party welcomed the Commissioner's remarks, stressing the need for close cooperation between Cyprus and Greece with the support of the European Union.
DISY also referred to plans for a future extension of the interconnection to Israel and other neighbouring countries.
The party called on the government to proceed with clear political will and determination, both to complete the project and to advance plans for its expansion.
DISY said the GSI is infrastructure of broader geopolitical and energy significance for Cyprus, Europe and the Eastern Mediterranean.
