Nikos Christodoulides revealed that the European Public Prosecutor’s Office (EPPO) has launched an investigation into potential criminal offenses connected to the Great Sea Interconnector project. Speaking after a commemorative event in Liopetri, Christodoulides said Nicosia maintains a united stance on the matter: the cable is of strategic importance for Cyprus, but its viability depends on the implementation of commitments undertaken by the Greek grid operator ADMIE, which is leading the project.

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“The government will not allow any shadow over the Republic of Cyprus,” the president stressed, noting that while the probe may delay progress, safeguarding the country’s credibility is paramount. He added that a parallel EPPO investigation is already underway into the LNG terminal at Vasilikos, another energy project under scrutiny.

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The announcement comes against the backdrop of growing friction between Nicosia and Athens. Cypriot Finance Minister Makis Keravnos has repeatedly refused to authorize the release of €25 million approved by the Cyprus Energy Regulatory Authority (CERA) as eligible recoverable costs for ADMIE. Keravnos argues that the project’s financial sustainability is questionable under current conditions, despite strong backing from the Greek government and EU institutions, which have designated it a priority cross-border infrastructure.

Christodoulides sought to downplay talk of rifts with Athens, insisting there are no disputes with the Greek government. Still, he emphasized that ADMIE must honor its obligations if the interconnector is to move forward.