DIKO President Nikolas Papadopoulos has voiced support for the Great Sea Interconnector (GSI), arguing that the project could deliver significant economic benefits to Cyprus, while also leaving open the possibility that his party could field its own candidate in the 2028 presidential election.
Speaking on the programme Morning Briefing, Papadopoulos said he expects developments in the coming days that could allow surveys linked to the interconnection project to resume.
Papadopoulos backs GSI
Papadopoulos said the economic case for the electricity interconnection remains strong.
According to the DIKO leader, if the interconnector were operating today, electricity imported from Greece would be around 30% cheaper on average, generating an estimated annual benefit of at least €185 million for the Cypriot economy.
He noted that the Republic of Cyprus has committed €125 million to the project, with the remaining funding expected to come from investors and European support.
Papadopoulos argued that the project would increase competition in the electricity market and enable Cyprus to export renewable energy that currently goes unused.
Geopolitical risks acknowledged
The DIKO president acknowledged the geopolitical risks associated with the project, particularly those linked to Turkey.
However, he argued that the project is supported by the European Union, Greece and international investors, which he said strengthens its prospects.
He also suggested that a revised economic assessment could show even greater benefits for Cyprus than initially projected, although he stressed that he had not seen the updated study and was expressing a personal view.
Internal discussion on 2028 election underway
Turning to the 2028 presidential election, Papadopoulos said DIKO has already begun an internal consultation process through district-level meetings and discussions with party members.
He said the process is expected to continue through late 2026 or early 2027 before recommendations are submitted to the party's leadership bodies.
According to Papadopoulos, no option has been ruled out.
Own candidate remains possible
Asked about DIKO's electoral strategy, Papadopoulos said the possibility of the party backing its own presidential candidate remains on the table.
He stressed that decisions would be made collectively after consultation within the party and noted that no political party has yet formally decided on its candidate for 2028.
Papadopoulos also predicted that DIKO would play a significant role in shaping the outcome of the election.
Cooperation with DIPA discussed
The DIKO leader confirmed that he met DIPA President Marios Karoyian in August, describing the discussion as "very productive."
He said DIKO is seeking ways to cooperate with DIPA where possible, stressing that the current discussions concern cooperation rather than a merger.
Papadopoulos added that contacts are expected to continue, including possible collaboration on policy development and cooperation among party working groups.
