Nicosia, Cyprus – Israel’s Prime Minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, has proposed the development of infrastructure projects, including a fiber optic cable, to connect countries in Asia and the Arabian Peninsula with Europe via Israel and Cyprus.
Netanyahu on Sunday expressed confidence in the feasibility of such an infrastructure “corridor” linking Asia and Europe through Israel and Cyprus, but he emphasized that it would depend on the normalization of relations between Israel and other countries in the region.
He cited a fiber optic connection as a prime example, noting its efficiency and economic advantages. Such a connection would provide a direct and secure route between continents.
This proposal aligns with the growing collaboration between Israel, Cyprus, and Greece, particularly in the energy sector. Recent discoveries of substantial natural gas deposits in the economic zones of Israel and Cyprus have prompted discussions about energy links.
Netanyahu reaffirmed plans for a 2,000-megawatt undersea electricity cable known as the EurAsia Interconnector, which would connect Israel with Cyprus and Greece, serving as an energy supply backup for both countries.
In addition to this electricity link, there is a proposal for a pipeline to transport offshore natural gas from Israel and Cyprus to Cyprus. This gas could be used for electricity generation or potentially liquefied for export.
The leaders of Cyprus and Israel are exploring the development of a reliable energy corridor connecting the East Mediterranean basin to Europe. This corridor would include projects such as gas pipelines and liquefied natural gas (LNG) processing plants.
The discussion also touched on the creation of a regional firefighting hub in Cyprus. With the region experiencing rising temperatures and increased fire risks, Netanyahu expressed support for this initiative to enhance cooperation in firefighting efforts.
Prime Minister Netanyahu, along with Cypriot President Nikos Christodoulides, is set to meet with Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis, continuing a tradition of trilateral meetings between the leaders of Israel, Cyprus, and Greece. These meetings aim to strengthen ties and promote cooperation in various fields, including energy and security.
Netanyahu described the relationship between the three nations as a “deep friendship” that is “real” and “long overdue.”
