The LNG tanker ETYFA-Prometheas is undergoing inspections in Malaysia for technical readiness. Energy Minister Papanastasiou discussed strategic choices regarding the inspections and potential involvement in the Great Sea Interconnector, emphasizing regional energy cooperation and independence for Cyprus.
The LNG tanker ETYFA-Prometheas is currently anchored in the Malacca Strait, Malaysia, where it is undergoing essential technical inspections. Energy Minister George Papanastasiou confirmed that the vessel, which embarked from Shanghai on December 14, has been stationed for evaluation since Christmas Eve. The selection of Malaysia for these assessments was deliberate, as it offers “more professional and extensive services,” ensuring that the vessel meets the readiness standards required for Cyprus’ evolving energy infrastructure.
In addition to the LNG inspections, Minister Papanastasiou addressed Cyprus’ potential involvement in the share capital of the Great Sea Interconnector (GSI), an important project that will connect Cyprus, Greece, and Israel via a subsea electricity cable. Earlier in December, he conveyed detailed observations and recommendations from Cyprus’ advisors to the Greek Environment and Energy Minister, Theodoros Skylakakis, through a comprehensive 10-page letter. Despite the absence of a response from Greece thus far, Papanastasiou remarked that the insights provided by the Greek Minister would significantly influence, but not solely dictate, Cyprus’ ultimate decision concerning its participation in the GSI initiative.
The government intends to consider multiple variables in its deliberations as it seeks to enhance the nation’s energy independence while reinforcing collaborative ties with neighboring regions. The concurrent evaluations of the LNG tanker and the developments surrounding the GSI project highlight Cyprus’ strategic endeavors to establish itself within the energy sector and to deepen connections with its neighbors in this critical field.
The ongoing inspections of the ETYFA-Prometheas LNG tanker are part of Cyprus’ broader efforts to fortify its energy infrastructure. The choice of Malaysia as the location for these assessments illustrates a strategic approach to ensuring high-quality evaluations and readiness for international energy demands. Concurrently, the discussions surrounding the Great Sea Interconnector represent Cyprus’ aspiration to integrate its energy capabilities with regional partners, enhancing both energy security and cooperation in the Eastern Mediterranean.
In summary, Cyprus is actively engaged in bolstering its energy capabilities through the strategic inspections of the ETYFA-Prometheas LNG tanker and ongoing discussions regarding the Great Sea Interconnector with Greece and Israel. These initiatives are critical to achieving the nation’s energy independence and fostering regional collaboration, as underscored by Minister Papanastasiou’s emphasis on thorough evaluations and multi-faceted decision-making processes.
Original Source: knews.kathimerini.com.cy
