The strategic energy autonomy of the European Union is of vital importance, Cypriot Minister of Energy George Papanastasiou said, pointing out that in this context interconnections between EU member-states and between member-states and non-EU states is crucial both for the security of supplies and the increase of renewables in the energy mix.

Papanastasiou’s remarks were made during the informal Energy Council meeting held in Valladolid, Spain, which discussed the Open Strategic Autonomy providing for the increase of its supply of critical and strategic raw materials, strengthening circularity, research and innovation.

According to a press release issued by the Ministry, speaking during the meeting, Papanastasiou said the EU’s open strategic autonomy in the field of energy is an issue of vital importance for the protection of the EU mainly from exogenous dependencies which have already affected the living standards of the EU citizens.

In this context, Papanastasiou pointed out the vital role of interconnections between member-states as well as between EU member-states need for safeguarding the security of supplies, increase in renewables and the strengthening of energy systems in the EU.

Papanastasiou also referred to the EuroAsia Interconnector a cable which will link Israel, Cyprus and Greece electric grids, which aims to create a corridor through which the EU could safely receive electricity.

He also referred to the need for secure, affordable and sustainable supply of critical raw materials as well as for the mitigation of risks in supply chains.

On Tuesday, Papanastasiou took part in a joint informal meeting of EU Ministers of Environment and Energy, focusing on the preparation of the COP 28 summit to be held in November and December in Dubai.