The Cyprus government and Chevron International reaffirmed on Wednesday that the development of Aphrodite gas field, located in the country's Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), is of "strategic importance."

The issue was discussed during a meeting which President, Nikos Christodoulides, had in New York with Chevron's President Clay Neff, and other officials of the company.

On the part of Chevron it was noted that the development of the gas field constitutes a priority for the company and takes place in the framework of energy plans in the Eastern Mediterranean.

According to a press release issued by Presidency, "during the meeting both the government and the company reaffirmed the strategic importance attributed to the development of Aphrodite gas field."

On the part of the company it was noted that the development of the gas field constitutes a priority for the company and takes place in the framework of energy plans in the Eastern Mediterranean, it is added

Moreover, during the discussion the two sides exchanged views regarding the plans carried out for the exploitation of energy resources in Cyprus' EEZ, while they also touched upon the negotiations which are underway between the Republic of Cyprus and the Company.

"President Christodoulides expressed the government's intention and readiness for a constructive cooperation to achieve our common objectives," the press release concluded.