Opening statement by the Minister of Energy, Commerce and Industry, Mr George Papanastasiou, at the 2nd MED9 Energy Ministerial Meeting

Dear colleagues,

Dear representatives of the European Commission and IRENA,

Ladies and gentlemen,

On behalf of the Republic of Cyprus, it is my great pleasure to welcome you all to Larnaka for this 2nd MED9 Energy Ministerial Meeting. As we gather here today, we are reminded of the crucial role energy plays in the Mediterranean region, not only as a driver of economic growth and development, but also as a key factor in addressing the urgent challenges of climate change and energy security.

Our region is uniquely positioned at the crossroads of Europe, Africa, and the Middle East, making it a vital hub for energy cooperation and innovation. As European Union (EU) member states, we also share the same goals and commitments towards climate neutrality. Thus, it is our responsibility to ensure a sustainable, secure, and affordable energy future for our citizens. To achieve these goals, we must work together, leveraging our collective strengths and fostering collaboration in areas such as the deployment of renewable energy and the development of innovative and resilient infrastructure.

Today's meeting is an opportunity for us to exchange insights and reinforce our commitment to a greener and more sustainable energy landscape. Let us use this platform to build upon the already solid foundation established during our first meeting in Valetta and to outline a clear path forward that not only benefits our nations, but also contributes to the global efforts to combat climate change.

I am confident that our discussions today will be productive and inspiring, leading to concrete actions and stronger ties between our countries. Together, we can shape a future where the Mediterranean region stands as a beacon of sustainable energy development and cooperation.

Thank you and I look forward to our fruitful discussions.

(GΑ/IA/ΝΖ)