Cyprus’ foreign policy vision is that natural gas becomes the equivalent of coal and steel for post-World War II Europe, Minister of Foreign Affairs Ioannis Kasoulides said on Thursday.
Addressing the inaugural event of the Cyprus Oil & Gas Association (COGA), in Nicosia, Kasoulides referred to the geopolitical aspect of energy for the country’s foreign policy.
If we are going to be a stable country with close links with neighbouring countries, with which we share hydrocarbon reserves in our common sea, the Mediterranean, then the geopolitical aspect is essential, the Minister said.
He said that a Cyprus solution was necessary and stated optimistic regarding the quick resumption of negotiations. Moreover, he added that Cyprus’ foreign policy vision includes all countries in the region, including Turkey.
Concerning the energy connection of Cyprus and Turkey, through a pipeline, the Foreign Minister noted that this option presupposes a Cyprus solution.
He further expressed hope that this could act as an incentive and a “game changer” for the resolution of the Cyprus problem.
The Minister also said that the identity of Cyprus’ foreign policy has shifted, based on its geographical position and energy reserves.
He wished finally every success to COGA and wished the business community to become the driving force behind the sector’s development.
On behalf of COGA, its President Andy Varoshiotis said that investment in the energy sector will outpace any other industry in the next few years.
COGA was founded in February 2013, under the auspices of the Cyprus Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCCI), aiming to advocate industry views.
The event was also addressed by CCCI President and Total E&P Cyprus CEO, while the Association honored former Foreign Minister Nicos Rolandis and current Minister Ioannis Kasoulides for their contribution.
Cyprus has been divided since 1974, when Turkish troops invaded and occupied its northern third. Efforts underway aim at resuming peace talks to find a negotiated settlement that will reunify the country, under a federal roof.
Addressing the inaugural event of the Cyprus Oil & Gas Association (COGA), in Nicosia, Kasoulides referred to the geopolitical aspect of energy for the country’s foreign policy.
If we are going to be a stable country with close links with neighbouring countries, with which we share hydrocarbon reserves in our common sea, the Mediterranean, then the geopolitical aspect is essential, the Minister said.
He said that a Cyprus solution was necessary and stated optimistic regarding the quick resumption of negotiations. Moreover, he added that Cyprus’ foreign policy vision includes all countries in the region, including Turkey.
Concerning the energy connection of Cyprus and Turkey, through a pipeline, the Foreign Minister noted that this option presupposes a Cyprus solution.
He further expressed hope that this could act as an incentive and a “game changer” for the resolution of the Cyprus problem.
The Minister also said that the identity of Cyprus’ foreign policy has shifted, based on its geographical position and energy reserves.
He wished finally every success to COGA and wished the business community to become the driving force behind the sector’s development.
On behalf of COGA, its President Andy Varoshiotis said that investment in the energy sector will outpace any other industry in the next few years.
COGA was founded in February 2013, under the auspices of the Cyprus Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCCI), aiming to advocate industry views.
The event was also addressed by CCCI President and Total E&P Cyprus CEO, while the Association honored former Foreign Minister Nicos Rolandis and current Minister Ioannis Kasoulides for their contribution.
Cyprus has been divided since 1974, when Turkish troops invaded and occupied its northern third. Efforts underway aim at resuming peace talks to find a negotiated settlement that will reunify the country, under a federal roof.
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