EU member states share common goals of achieving climate neutrality and ensuring a sustainable, secure and affordable energy future, Energy Minister George Papanastasiou said on Monday at the opening of the 2nd MED9 ministerial meeting on energy.
The conference, taking place in Larnaca, welcomed energy ministers and representatives from Mediterranean EU countries.
“Our meeting reminds us of the critical role that energy plays in the Mediterranean region, not only as a driver of economic growth and development, but also as a key factor in addressing the urgent challenges of climate change and energy security,” he said.
He added that the region is uniquely positioned at the crossroads of Europe, Africa and the Middle East, making it a vital hub for energy cooperation and innovation.
“As EU member states we also share the same goals and commitments to climate neutrality and therefore it is our responsibility to ensure a sustainable, secure and affordable energy future for our citizens,” he said.
Papanastasiou said that “in order to achieve these goals, we must work together, utilising our collective strengths and promoting cooperation in areas such as the promotion of Renewable Energy Sources and the development of innovative and resilient infrastructure”.
He added that the summit is an opportunity to exchange views and strengthen commitment to a greener and more sustainable energy landscape.
At the same time, he called on everyone “to use this platform offered to us to build on the already strong foundations laid at our first meeting in Valletta and to chart our way forward, which will not only benefit our nations, but also contribute to global efforts to combat climate change”.
He added that he was confident today’s discussions “will be very productive and lead to concrete actions and stronger ties between our countries”.
“Together we can shape a future where the Mediterranean region will be a beacon of sustainable energy development and cooperation,” he said.
Representatives from France, Greece, Italy, Spain, Croatia, Malta, Portugal, Slovenia, the European Commission, and the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) attended the meeting.
