cyprus-greece interconnector — DIKO President Nikolas Papadopoulos has expressed significant concerns regarding the government’s performance under President Nikos Christodoulides, particularly highlighting the critical Cyprus-Greece electrical interconnector project.
In a recent interview with Politis, Papadopoulos lamented that the collaboration between his party and the government has not yielded the expected results. He emphasised that DIKO has not provided a “blank cheque” of support and will voice objections when it believes the government is erring. “We believe in the government’s programme and want to assist in its implementation, but the President must decide whether he wants to improve his governance or maintain a problematic cooperation,” he stated.
Turning his attention to the energy sector, Papadopoulos warned that the potential collapse of the Cyprus-Greece interconnector would represent a severe geopolitical setback for Cyprus, likening it to the controversial S-300 missile crisis. He underscored the project’s geostrategic importance, expressing alarm over ongoing delays and contradictory statements from government officials.
“The Great Sea Interconnector will bring us cheap electricity, end our energy isolation, and transform Cyprus into an energy conduit for the entire Eastern Mediterranean,” he explained. Papadopoulos recalled the historical context, noting that Cyprus and Greece have previously fought to exclude Turkey and the occupied territories from the European energy network. He cautioned that if the interconnector project fails, it may allow Turkey and the occupied areas to re-enter the European energy landscape, marking a significant geopolitical defeat.
Looking ahead, Papadopoulos discussed the future political trajectory of DIKO, asserting the importance of continued cooperation with the Democratic Rally (DISY) in the next parliament. He reflected on the historical collaboration that has benefited the nation, from integrating into the euro to economic recovery following a financial crisis.
He articulated a firm belief that cooperation with DISY remains crucial in shielding the populace from the potential economic threats posed by extremist and populist forces in the upcoming parliamentary elections. “Not only is there a prospect of cooperation with DISY in Parliament, but I believe this collaboration is our best defence against economic destruction,” he concluded.
