Greece and Cyprus Advance Undersea Power Cable Despite Turkey Objections
Greece and Cyprus are proceeding with the Great Sea Interconnector power cable project despite Turkish claims that the route violates its continental shelf.
The Government of Greece and Cyprus are moving forward with the Great Sea Interconnector, an undersea power cable designed to end the energy isolation of Cyprus by linking it to the European Union power grid. The project, which targets completion by the end of 2031, is supported by 658 million euros in EU funding and potential financing of 1 billion euros from the European Investment Bank. French firms are currently financing and building the infrastructure.
Diplomatic tensions escalated on Friday after Greece issued a NAVTEX notice for seabed surveys. The Government of Turkey responded with a counter-notice, accusing a French-flagged vessel of planning unlawful research in waters Turkey claims as its continental shelf. In response, the French Republic sent a note verbale to Turkey informing it of the surveys. Greek government spokesman Pavlos Marinakis dismissed claims that this communication acknowledged Turkish sovereignty, stating the note produces no legal effect and is not a permit.
Cyprus Energy Minister Michalis Damianos confirmed that the project is proceeding without obstacles, though he acknowledged that difficulties may arise. The initiative is further supported by the United States through the 3+1 energy partnership involving Greece, Cyprus, Israel, and the U.S., with potential future extensions of the cable to Israel.
