**Cyprus Commits €25 Million to Great Sea Interconnector Project**
Cyprus has announced its commitment to contribute €25 million towards the Great Sea Interconnector (GSI) project, contingent upon the issuance of a Navtex for the resumption of survey work. This decision was disclosed by President Nikos Christodoulides during an interview on Plus TV, where he also revealed that this agreement was reached in collaboration with Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis.
In the interview, President Christodoulides emphasized the importance of the agreement, stating, "We agreed that Cyprus will pay the €25 million as soon as the Navtex is issued for the start of the seismic surveys." He assured that this payment commitment had been accounted for in the state budget for both 2025 and 2026, indicating the government's readiness to honor this financial obligation.
Addressing concerns regarding potential disagreements between Cyprus and Greece over the GSI project, Christodoulides firmly rejected such notions. "There is absolutely no friction with Athens," he asserted, countering suggestions that differing views or approaches existed between the two nations. He described the relationship as collaborative and focused on the successful implementation of the GSI.
The GSI project is significant for both Cyprus and Greece, aiming to enhance energy connectivity and security in the region. The project's viability, however, hinges on the timely execution of various preliminary steps, including the issuance of the Navtex. In September 2025, Christodoulides noted that "certain things" needed to be implemented before the payment could be finalized, highlighting the importance of adhering to the project timeline.
Energy Minister Michael Damianos also addressed the anticipated resumption of maritime surveys related to the GSI, stating that a Navtex notice from the Greek government is expected to be issued within weeks. He dismissed claims that private business interests in Cyprus were exerting pressure on the government regarding the project's implementation, asserting that the government remains focused on the project's objectives.
Damianos further elaborated on the timeline for the GSI's completion, projecting that it would likely be finalized around the end of 2031. He cautioned against providing a definitive timetable, given the scale and complexity of the undertaking. In a prior interview with the Cyprus Mail in April, he underscored the necessity of understanding the financial implications of the project before any final decisions could be made. "Someone is going to pay the bill," he remarked, emphasizing the need for clarity on the financial responsibilities associated with the GSI.
As the GSI project progresses, the commitment from Cyprus to contribute €25 million represents a significant step towards enhancing energy cooperation between Cyprus and Greece. The successful execution of the project is expected to bolster energy security in the region and facilitate greater connectivity within the European energy market.