Recent discoveries of significant offshore gas reserves Cyprus important, says its president, Kathimerini Cyprus. European Parliament Robert Metzolanoting that the news is promising at a time when the EU needs to replace Russian energy sources.

He also emphasizes that E.E. and especially the European Parliament has clearly called on Turkey to immediately cancel its actions in Varossia, as they impede the prospect of reaching a solution to the Cyprus problem.

In an interview published in I Kathimerini Cyprus and answering questions in writing, Ms. Metsola talks about whether and to what extent natural gas can be a source of cooperation rather than conflict, especially at this stage.

“Recent discoveries of significant natural gas reserves offshore Cyprus are important for two reasons: firstly, they promise an increase in natural gas production in the EU. without dependence on third countries for energy supplies. This news is promising at a time when we need to replace Russian energy sources. Secondly, today’s crisis has brought EU member states even closer – we are working out common solutions to common problems. This means that the discovery of large natural gas fields in one country is good news for the entire bloc and makes us all stronger. I sincerely believe that a common approach to energy can bring us even closer and become a catalyst for peace and cooperation, rather than a factor causing conflict.”

In connection with her visit to Cyprus on September 9 and the question of resolving the Cyprus issue, Ms. Metsola states that the only option for a sustainable settlement of the Cyprus issue is to continue a focused dialogue based on the agreed framework and UN resolution: “Turkey must demonstrate its commitment to maintaining good neighborly relations and stop promote unacceptable and extreme proposals, such as a two-state solution in Cyprus, contrary to the spirit and letter of the United States.” The framework of nations,” he said.

Regarding the Russian invasion of Ukraine, as well as sanctions imposed by the European side on the Kremlin, the President of the European Parliament characterizes the reaction of the EU as united and solidary: “This war began with Putin’s unjustified attack on a sovereign state. Ukraine. Therefore, we must not forget who the aggressor is. While our top priority is to end the war, we must at the same time avoid the fatigue it causes. We must not forget that we are on the right side of history, even if the effort is long and tedious. Our support helps Ukraine survive and Ukraine fights not for anyone, but for its citizens and for us, Europeans, for our values ​​and our way of life. If the conflict continues, the blame and responsibility will fall only on Putin. The EU was created to ensure peace on the European continent, and we will insist on this. Europe will not succumb to the blackmail of a dictator.”