Mitsotakis’ Messages from UN Headquarters: Greece-Cyprus Electric Interconnection and Freedom of Navigation

With his focus on Turkey, Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis delivered clear messages from the podium of the UN Security Council, where Greece holds the presidency for the 2025-2026 term. Amid regional instability, Mitsotakis emphasized the importance of respecting the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) by all parties. Speaking before UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, he highlighted the necessity of reinforcing the legal framework to address current and emerging security threats. ‘UNCLOS essentially reflects international customary law and must be respected in its entirety,’ Mitsotakis stressed. He also underscored that the electric interconnection between Greece and Cyprus, following the connection with Israel, is non-negotiable. ‘The freedom to connect for electricity and data transfer through submarine cables must remain unwavering as it ensures diverse, affordable, and high-level energy and connectivity globally,’ he added. Addressing global asymmetrical threats like smuggling, terrorism, piracy, hybrid attacks, and climate change, Mitsotakis reiterated that global problems require global solutions achieved through effective international cooperation at various levels. Regarding maritime security, critical for global supply chains, Greece will remain a staunch advocate for the freedom of navigation in close collaboration with all UN member states. During a private meeting with Guterres, the Cyprus issue was a focal point, amid provocative statements from Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan regarding a two-state solution. The appointment of Maria Angeles Borges as the Secretary-General’s personal envoy for Cyprus was welcomed by Mitsotakis.