The agreements slated for signing on February 17th represent a pivotal step for Cyprus, marking some of the most significant energy partnerships in the nation’s history. Minister of Energy, Trade, and Commerce George Papanastasiou, alongside Egypt’s Petroleum Minister Karim Badawi and Chevron’s Vice President for International Exploration and Production, Frank Cassulo, underscored this during their tour of Old Nicosia.
Papanastasiou emphasized the importance of these agreements, particularly for the development of Cyprus’ natural gas fields. “These agreements focus on the exploitation of the Kronos field, and we’re also finalizing a Memorandum of Understanding for the Aphrodite field,” he explained. The MoU, he added, lays the groundwork for a host-country agreement, setting the stage for future collaboration.
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Badawi echoed the significance of the upcoming signing, describing it as a milestone that could “unlock Cyprus’ potential for the benefit of all.” He highlighted Egypt’s infrastructure as a key factor in realizing the shared vision, noting that cooperation between the two nations is a strategic fit given their complementary strengths—Cyprus’ natural wealth and Egypt’s well-established energy infrastructure.
The Egyptian Minister also pointed to the strong relationship between the two countries’ leaders, President Christodoulides and President Sisi. This rapport, he said, has laid the foundation for accelerating energy cooperation. “The invitation for President Christodoulides to join us in Egypt for the signing is an honor. It reflects our shared commitment to advancing these critical agreements,” Badawi remarked.
Papanastasiou underlined that the collaboration goes beyond business. “Human connections strengthen our partnerships,” he noted, adding that the agreements signal the start of broader bilateral and regional efforts to enhance energy connectivity.
Both ministers stressed that the Kronos and Aphrodite projects are just the beginning. Badawi called the timing “fantastic,” citing alignment not only in resources but also in ambition. “When the stars align, you seize the moment,” he said, describing the partnership as a model for how nations can work together to unlock regional energy potential.
Looking ahead, the agreements are poised to pave the way for more discoveries and deeper collaboration, solidifying Cyprus and Egypt as key players in the Mediterranean energy landscape.
