**Greek Minister: Permission from Turkey Unnecessary for Great Sea Interconnector Project**
The Greek Deputy Foreign Minister, Tasos Chatzivasileiou, reaffirmed on Thursday that no permission from Turkey is required for the progression of the Great Sea Interconnector (GSI) project. This ambitious initiative aims to link the energy grids of Cyprus, Greece, and Israel, facilitating energy exchange and enhancing regional cooperation.
Chatzivasileiou made his remarks during an interview with Greek television channel Skai, emphasizing that the planning for the interconnector is proceeding as scheduled. He stated, “Based on international law, permission is not required, let alone for a peaceful infrastructure project which will connect Europe with the Middle East.” His comments reflect Greece's commitment to advancing the project despite ongoing tensions with Turkey over maritime boundaries and energy rights in the Eastern Mediterranean.
The GSI project has recently gained momentum following the acquisition of a majority stake by French asset management firm Meridiam. Chatzivasileiou described this investment as a "vote of confidence" in the project's viability and safety. He assured that Greece would not shy away from responding to provocations while safeguarding its national interests, reiterating that the planning is continuing smoothly.
As part of the project’s development, Greece is expected to issue a navigational telex (navtex) in the near future. This notice will inform seafarers of upcoming seabed surveys necessary for the cable's installation between Cyprus and Crete. According to Greece’s independent transmission system operator, Admie, approximately 60% of the seabed surveys have already been completed. However, the remaining 40% of the seabed lies within disputed waters claimed by both Greece and Turkey, complicating the survey efforts.
The maritime dispute has previously escalated, with Turkish naval vessels intervening in 2024 when the Italian research vessel, the Ievoli Reulme, entered what Turkey considers its territorial waters. In response, Greece deployed its own naval vessels, including frigates, to the area, highlighting the ongoing tensions between the two nations over maritime rights.
The core of the dispute revolves around the interpretation of international maritime law, specifically regarding the exclusive economic zones (EEZ) of islands. Greece and Cyprus argue, based on the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), that islands are entitled to their own EEZs. Conversely, Turkey, which is not a signatory to UNCLOS, contends that islands do not generate their own EEZs beyond their territorial waters, thus claiming the waters between Cyprus and Crete as Turkish territory.
Greek Foreign Minister Giorgos Gerapetritis has indicated that Greece is prepared to respond decisively to any future maritime confrontations, reiterating that the country will defend its sovereign rights. The situation remains delicate, as both nations navigate their claims in a region rich in energy resources and strategic importance.
The Great Sea Interconnector project is seen as a pivotal development in enhancing energy security and cooperation in the Eastern Mediterranean. As planning and preparations continue, the project is poised to play a significant role in connecting energy markets and fostering economic ties among Greece, Cyprus, and Israel, despite the backdrop of regional tensions.