The 10th trilateral meeting between Greece, Cyprus, and Egypt took place in Cairo amidst significant regional developments, particularly in Syria and the Eastern Mediterranean. The meeting, which brought together Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis, Cypriot President Nikos Christodoulides, and Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi, emphasized cooperation in energy, regional stability, and economic ties.

Regional Stability Dominates the Agenda

According to report by Yiannis Ioannou, the Syrian conflict and Turkey’s growing influence in the region were central to the discussions. Leaders expressed concern about Syria’s fragile political transition following the fall of the Assad regime. The trilateral meeting highlighted the need for an inclusive transition that respects Syria’s territorial integrity, ethnic, and religious diversity. Additionally, the leaders agreed on the importance of avoiding future disputes over maritime zones between Turkey and Syria.

Egypt’s stance against the involvement of the Syrian Muslim Brotherhood in the transitional government, tied to its long-standing concerns over Turkish influence, was echoed by Greece and Cyprus. The leaders emphasized the need for international cooperation to stabilize Syria, prevent a resurgence of conflict, and address potential refugee and migration crises.

Strengthened Energy and Economic Cooperation

Energy security was a cornerstone of the summit. The leaders signed and updated bilateral and trilateral agreements to strengthen cooperation in renewable energy, gas transmission, and electrical connectivity. A key project discussed was the “Kronos” gas field in Cyprus’ Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), which is planned to be connected to Egypt’s energy infrastructure. This partnership reflects years of close cooperation between Cyprus and Egypt in energy development.

The Greece-Cyprus-Egypt electrical interconnection project, known as GREGY, also took center stage. If implemented, it would provide Cyprus with a regional energy link, enhancing energy autonomy and security.

In parallel, the Cyprus-Egypt Business Forum, held alongside the summit, underscored growing trade and investment ties. Areas of collaboration include healthcare, technology, water management, aquaculture, and gender equality. Leaders stressed that stronger economic relations would boost regional stability and benefit citizens.

Τριμερής Σύνοδος Κορυφής Κύπρου-Ελλάδας- Αιγύπτου pic.twitter.com/cTr4qRt52Y


— President of the Republic of Cyprus (@PresidentCYP) January 8, 2025

Shared Vision for Peace and Stability

The leaders reaffirmed their commitment to promoting peace and stability in a region marked by ongoing conflicts, including in Gaza, Lebanon, Sudan, and Libya. They condemned external interference in state sovereignty and called for adherence to international law and the UN Charter. The leaders praised Egypt’s role as a stabilizing force in the region, with President Christodoulides noting that Cairo remains pivotal for both regional and European security.

The Cyprus Issue and EU Relations

The Cyprus problem was a significant topic during the meeting. The leaders reiterated their commitment to finding a just solution that ends the Turkish occupation and aligns with UN Security Council resolutions. Such a resolution, they said, would create unprecedented opportunities for political stability and economic growth in the Eastern Mediterranean.

President Christodoulides highlighted the importance of Cyprus’ upcoming EU Council presidency in 2026 and expressed support for deepening EU-Egypt relations. He also pointed to the EU’s strategic partnership with Egypt, including financial assistance to Cairo, as a crucial step toward shared security and stability.

Statements from the Leaders

– President Christodoulides praised Egypt’s hospitality and emphasized the tangible results of the trilateral cooperation, including agreements in health, education, water resources, and women’s empowerment. He called for continued efforts to foster stability in the Eastern Mediterranean.
– President Sisi highlighted joint energy initiatives and maritime security as pillars of the partnership, emphasizing Egypt’s role as a regional stabilizer.
– Prime Minister Mitsotakis stressed the resilience of the trilateral format amidst regional crises and reaffirmed Greece’s support for Cyprus’ sovereignty and the peaceful resolution of disputes.

Conclusion

The Cairo summit showcased the deepening strategic partnership between Greece, Cyprus, and Egypt. The leaders’ unified approach to energy, security, and economic development reflects their shared vision for a stable Eastern Mediterranean and Middle East. For Cyprus, the summit highlighted its pivotal role in fostering regional cooperation and advancing EU relations with key partners like Egypt.