The European Public Prosecutor’s Office has confirmed an ongoing investigation into the Great Sea Interconnector (GSI) electricity cable project linking Cyprus and Greece, without providing further details to avoid compromising the probe’s outcome.
President Christodoulides announced on Wednesday that the Law Office had informed him the European prosecutor was launching an investigation into potential criminal offences related to the interconnection project.
A European Public Prosecutor’s Office spokesperson told the Cyprus News Agency: “We can confirm that an investigation is ongoing,” adding that “no further details can be disclosed at this time.”
The spokesperson emphasised that any public updates would come directly from the European Public Prosecutor’s Office if developments warrant announcement regarding its investigations.
Greece receives no contact from European prosecutors over GSI project
The Greek government has received no communication or contact from the European Public Prosecutor’s Office regarding the Great Sea Interconnector, Greek government spokesperson Pavlos Marinakis said, responding to questions about Christodoulides’ statements.
Marinakis added that Athens would seek further briefing from Nicosia regarding its intentions for the electrical interconnection project.
Gvernment spokesperson Constantinos Letymbiotis said that no disagreement exists with the Greek government on the electricity interconnection issue, responding to journalists’ questions at the Presidential Palace.
Cyprus maintains strategic importance of electricity interconnection despite probe
Letymbiotis reiterated that the electrical interconnection cable project remains “strategically important” for the Republic of Cyprus, but its viability depends on implementing specific conditions by the project’s implementing body.
The spokesperson confirmed that the president was briefed about the European Public Prosecutor’s Office investigation launch regarding the project, without additional details. “Where shadows exist, they must be cleared,” he said, noting that procedures would be followed by the prosecutor’s office.
Addressing questions about alignment with the finance minister, the spokesperson stressed “the government’s position is unified” concerning the need to implement obligations undertaken by the implementing body. “Nobody is pulling the cable from the socket,” he said, denying related media reports.
Letymbiotis clarified that relations with Athens remain regular, frequent and based on “the sincerity that characterises them.”
Regarding outstanding viability reports and conditions requiring implementation, he said these concern matters discussed at a major meeting held last year in Cyprus. He noted the project’s significant importance for the EU, Greece and Cyprus, with substantial Union funding.
“Those of us who wish to see its implementation must contribute in ways that ensure its completion,” he added.
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