President Nikos Christodoulides on Wednesday called for an acceleration of Cyprus gas plans after meeting a delegation from US energy giant Chevron, led by emerging countries chairman Javier La Rosa.
He said discussions focused on advancing the agreement between Chevron, Israel’s NewMed Energy, and BG Group (owned by Shell) regarding the Aphrodite gas field in Block 12 of Cyprus’ exclusive economic zone.
Christodoulides noted that internal procedures linked to the agreement are now “close to completion”, signalling progress in Cyprus’ gas plans.
Aphrodite field progress
The President stressed that gas plans are entering a decisive phase, with final internal procedures expected within weeks.
He said the government will take cabinet decisions in line with a broader action plan aimed at commercialising natural gas from the Aphrodite field.
Cyprus, Chevron, and partners previously signed a memorandum of understanding that sets the framework for developing and exporting gas from the field.
EU energy security focus
Christodoulides linked Cyprus’ gas plans to wider European energy priorities, highlighting energy security, diversification, and autonomy as key EU objectives.
He said recent international developments have made acceleration of gas plans more urgent, particularly after tensions in the Middle East disrupted global energy flows.
He also noted that Cyprus’ natural gas resources received increased attention at a recent informal European Council summit in Nicosia, underlining the strategic importance of the Eastern Mediterranean.
Regional cooperation
The President also discussed gas plans with Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi, stressing the importance of regional cooperation.
He said energy projects in the Eastern Mediterranean can strengthen Europe’s supply security while connecting regional resources to European demand.
Cyprus plans include transporting gas from the Aphrodite field to Egypt’s Damietta LNG terminal for liquefaction, supporting broader export ambitions.
Next steps for Cyprus gas plans
A techno-economic study on Block 12 is already underway and will guide the final investment decision, previously expected to follow its completion.
Seabed surveys to determine pipeline routes from Cyprus’ EEZ to Egypt began last year, marking another key step in advancing the gas plans.
Also read: Deal sealed for Aphrodite gas field – Exports to Egypt for 15 years
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