In a virtual meeting held on Wednesday 1^st of September 2021, by the Minister of Energy, Commerce and Industry of the Republic of Cyprus, Ms Natasa Pilides, and the Minister of Energy of the State of Israel, Ms Karine Elharrar, the two countries’ excellent bilateral relations were reaffirmed, especially in the field of energy.

During the meeting, Ministers Pilides and Elharrar focussed their discussion on the mutually beneficial energy collaboration between Cyprus and Israel, going over the next steps in the joint promotion of common projects, such as the EuroAsia Interconnector electricity cable, as well as the two countries’ active participation in the East Mediterranean Gas Forum, intended to foster multilateral cooperation in the region.

Moreover, the Ministers discussed practical ways in which to further enhance the two countries’ commitment to work together towards a greener and sustainable future for the East Med, with reduced emissions, including joint efforts in the deployment of new technologies for the increased use of RES, energy saving and the promotion of circular practices.

Cyprus’ Minister of Energy, Natasa Pilides: “Cyprus and Israel are true partners in the East Med, often leading initiatives and efforts to create much needed regional cooperation and synergies between neighbouring countries. Whether in the hydrocarbons sector or in our common goal for the transition to a green energy model, our region’s prosperity, stability and sustainable development depend on our mutual respect of nations’ sovereign rights, as well as our ability and willingness to work closely together to build a shared future.”

Israel’s Minister of Energy, Karine Elharrar: “Cyprus is more than Israel’s neighbour; Cyprus is a close and long-standing friend and partner, who is dealing with similar challenges. The energy sector is one of the most significant challenges, since both countries are energy islands and rely fully on self-sufficiency. I sincerely hope that, thanks to the close friendship with Minister Natasa Pilides, we will be able to work together, two countries, in order to create better energy security and connectivity in the region. The measures we are taking will benefit our citizens and consumers, who will enjoy more competitive prices, and, more importantly, will enhance and strengthen our ability to further develop renewable energies and trade them during peak hours. ”