The Energy Ministers of Greece, Cyprus, Israel, and the United States reaffirmed their shared commitment to regional energy security and cooperation during the 3+1 Energy Ministerial Meeting, held on Thursday in Athens.

The discussions centered on strengthening the Eastern Mediterranean’s role as a strategic hub for energy interconnectivity, bolstering critical infrastructure protection, and advancing projects within the India–Middle East–Europe Corridor (IMEC) framework.

In a joint statement, the four nations emphasized that the 3+1 cooperation mechanism remains pivotal for ensuring stability, resilience, and energy independence in the region. They reiterated support for ongoing and future interconnection projects, including potential natural gas pipeline developments that could diversify Europe’s energy supply and reduce reliance on “malicious actors.”

>>EastMed Pipeline Back on the Table<<

“Significant progress has been made regarding a possible gas pipeline project—an idea once shelved, now revived with strong U.S. engagement,” said Israel’s Energy Minister Eli Cohen, noting that the initiative aims to offer an alternative to Russian energy routes while bypassing Houthi-controlled areas and helping Europe lower energy costs.

The ministers also condemned Russia’s attempts to bypass oil sanctions to fund its ongoing war against Ukraine, underlining the importance of energy transparency and adherence to international law.

The Eastern Mediterranean Energy Center was highlighted as a key vehicle for regional collaboration, supporting joint projects and reinforcing the strategic importance of the Eastern Mediterranean in Europe’s energy diversification agenda.

The next 3+1 Energy Ministerial Meeting will take place in Washington, D.C., in the second quarter of 2026, aiming to deepen cooperation and accelerate shared energy initiatives between the four nations.