Greek Cypriot leader Nikos Christodoulides said energy remains a central priority on his agenda, highlighting the close cooperation between Cyprus and Egypt during a meeting on Wednesday with Egyptian Minister of Petroleum Karim Badawi at the Presidential Palace in Nicosia.
Minister Badawi is in Cyprus representing Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El Sisi at the opening ceremony of Cyprus’ Presidency of the Council of the European Union.
Speaking after the meeting, Christodoulides said he is scheduled to meet a senior executive from ENI on Thursday and stressed the importance of advancing the exploitation of the “Kronos” gas deposit. He underlined the need for close coordination in order to accelerate developments as soon as possible.
He also emphasized that one of Cyprus’ main priorities during its EU Presidency is to strengthen the European Union’s engagement with the region, particularly with Egypt. “Egypt is a strategic partner of the EU,” Christodoulides said, describing the country as a pillar of stability in a region facing significant challenges but also major opportunities, especially through Cyprus–Egypt cooperation.
In a post on X, Christodoulides described the meeting as “particularly constructive,” reaffirming Cyprus’ intention to consistently advocate for a continued and enhanced EU engagement with Egypt throughout its Presidency. He added that he looks forward to close coordination in advancing shared priorities.
For his part, Egyptian Minister of Petroleum Karim Badawi described Cyprus and Egypt as strategic partners and expressed confidence that Cyprus’ Presidency of the Council of the European Union will have a tangible and meaningful impact at all levels.
( Source: CNA)
