Greece-Cyprus, the electric cable project at the center of the debate, Athens: We did not ask permission from any other country
The Greek government has reacted to the controversies regarding the electrical interconnection project between Greece and Cyprus, rejecting the claims that permission was sought or received from Turkey for its implementation.
The spokesman of the Greek government, Pavlos Marinakis, during an interview for the public television ERT, explained that the procedures for the project were developed through the Greek and Cypriot authorities, in accordance with the rules and international law.
Referring to the diplomatic note of France, Marinakis emphasized that it does not constitute authorization and does not bring any legal consequences that can be interpreted as recognition of the sovereign rights of another state, reports Protothema.
“The diplomatic note is the mildest form of communication of messages between states. It does not produce any legal effect and in no way constitutes permission”., declared Marinakis.
He also confirmed that the Greek side was aware of the French diplomatic communication, explaining that France has a direct interest in the project, as two French companies are involved in it. According to him, other states of the region have also been informed about the developments, but this does not mean that they have been asked for approval for the realization of the project.
“No permission or authorization procedure has been requested nor would it be requested from any other country, except Greece and Cyprus”, said the spokesperson of the Greek government.
Speaking about the strategic importance of the project, Marinakis underlined that the Greece-Cyprus electrical interconnection is an infrastructure of European importance, which aims to end the energy isolation of the island.
He recalled that Cyprus is the only member state of the European Union that does not currently have an electrical interconnection with other countries of the union. According to him, the project will continue as planned, while the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and relevant institutions are closely following the developments. Marinakis emphasized that Greece will not compromise on sovereignty issues, but at the same time will aim to maintain peace and stability in the region.
“Greece must advance this project in a way that guarantees the preservation of peace in the region, without any withdrawal.”, he declared.
In conclusion, the Greek government spokesman rejected interpretations that France's diplomatic communication constitutes a form of authorization from Turkey, guaranteeing that the electrical interconnection project between Greece and Cyprus will continue without questioning the sovereign rights of the two countries.
