Marco Rubio, the U.S. Secretary of State, announced the country's support for the submarine cable project in the Eastern Mediterranean. This project, which is backed by the European Union, aims to create an electrical connection between mainland Europe, Cyprus, and later Israel. Rubio stated in an interview with a Greek newspaper that the United States will use diplomacy to remove any potential obstacles to this project.
Details of the Submarine Cable Project
This €1.9 billion project, being developed by the Independent Power Transmission Operator (IPTO) of Greece, has faced challenges. One of these challenges is the disputes between Greece and Turkey regarding the maritime area where the cable is to be installed. Greece is seeking to resume underwater surveys to determine the cable route, but Turkey believes that this action requires prior coordination between the two countries, as this area is under the 2019 maritime agreement with Libya, which Athens has rejected.
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U.S. Commitment and Its Implications
Rubio emphasized in this interview that the United States is "very committed" to this project, as it helps diversify energy supply. He added that this action is particularly necessary in the current circumstances, given Russia's war in Ukraine and the situation in the Strait of Hormuz. Rubio highlighted the importance of diplomacy in resolving issues and obstacles and expressed hope that solutions could be found for these problems.
The French investment group Meridiam signed an agreement in August to become the main shareholder of this project. It is worth noting that Cyprus is the only EU country that has no connection to the electricity markets of other members, and this cable aims to improve the energy security of this country.
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