The Great Sea Interconnector project linking Greece and Cyprus could see marine surveys resume in late October, after French cable manufacturer Nexans submitted a request to Greek authorities for permission to restart research activities.
According to a report by Kathimerini in Athens, the request was submitted on 8 October to the relevant department of Greece’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs. It seeks an exceptional permit for marine surveys involving the specialised vessel VB Abeille Marengo.
The request marks a significant development for the Great Sea Interconnector, which has faced delays amid geopolitical tensions in the eastern Mediterranean.
Surveys could begin in late October
The process requires Greek Foreign Minister George Gerapetritis to submit a recommendation to the interministerial committee responsible for granting marine research permits. The committee will make the final decision.
If approval is granted, the Hydrographic Service of the Hellenic Navy must issue the relevant NAVTEX within 48 hours, specifying the survey areas and the duration of the work.
According to the reported timetable, the surveys could begin during the third ten-day period of October. Nexans’ request covers activities through the end of 2026.
Nexans has also held talks with Cyprus
The French company has already held technical discussions and maintained communications with the Republic of Cyprus, according to the report.
The same information indicates that the French side has accepted that the permit application will be submitted exclusively to the competent Greek authorities, without requiring a parallel procedure involving a third country.
The development comes as the project’s stakeholders seek to move forward with the marine surveys needed for the planned electricity link between Greece and Cyprus.
Turkey’s response remains a key concern
Despite the technical preparations, Turkey’s position remains a major geopolitical factor in the potential resumption of the work.
Turkish reactions in 2024 and 2025 were a significant obstacle to surveys east of Kasos, outside Greek territorial waters.
Ankara maintains that cooperation and coordination are necessary, while it remains unclear how any new objections would be handled.
The issuance of the NAVTEX and, more importantly, the actual start of the surveys will be crucial in determining whether the Great Sea Interconnector can overcome the obstacles that previously led to the suspension of work.
Also read: GSI: Greece expected to issue NAVTEX in October
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