kathimerini.gr
Greece Defies Turkey, Restarts Research on Crucial Energy Cable
Greece is restarting research for the Greece-Cyprus-Israel electricity cable (Great Sea Interconnector) despite Turkish objections, backed by Israel and France, potentially involving joint military exercises in international waters to counter Turkish claims.
- How does the Greece-Egypt maritime boundary agreement impact the legal standing of the Great Sea Interconnector project in relation to Turkish objections?
- This project challenges Turkey's claim limiting Greek rights to six nautical miles, using the 2020 Greece-Egypt maritime boundary agreement as legal basis. Israel's support stems from strategic energy needs, EU integration, and regional tensions with Turkey. The project also involves the French company Nexans, which leases the research vessels.
- What are the immediate implications of Greece's decision to resume research for the Great Sea Interconnector, considering Turkish opposition and the involvement of other countries?
- Greece is restarting research for the Greece-Cyprus-Israel electricity cable (Great Sea Interconnector), despite Turkish objections. High-level decisions support the project, crucial for Cypriot energy security and backed by Israel, aiming for EU grid connection. Research vessels will be escorted by the Greek Armed Forces, potentially alongside French naval units, signaling Greece's determination to proceed even south of Kasos and Karpathos islands.
- What are the potential long-term geopolitical consequences of the Great Sea Interconnector project, considering Israel's involvement and the responses of major energy corporations such as Chevron?
- The project's progression signals a broader geopolitical shift, with France's strategic partnership with Greece and Chevron's interest in hydrocarbon exploration south of Crete reinforcing recognition of Greece's Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ). The involvement of Israel and potential US support further demonstrates a united front against Turkey's maritime claims and solidifies the project's importance for regional energy security.
Cognitive Concepts
Framing Bias
The article frames the project as crucial for Greece's national interests and energy security, emphasizing its importance for Cyprus and Israel. The headline (if there was one) likely reinforces this framing. The focus on the military preparations and the involvement of France and Israel strengthens the narrative of a strong, decisive Greek response to potential Turkish opposition.
Language Bias
The article uses strong language such as "pyretos proetoimasiwn" (fever of preparations), "apofasis eilimenis" (decision taken), and "apofasistikotita" (determination), conveying a sense of urgency and decisiveness. This language could influence the reader to perceive the Greek government's actions as justified and necessary. While this is not explicitly biased, more neutral wording could be used to improve objectivity.
Bias by Omission
The article focuses heavily on the Greek perspective and the geopolitical implications of the project, potentially omitting perspectives from Cyprus, Israel, or Turkey. The article mentions differing opinions within the Greek government but doesn't elaborate on their nature or the arguments involved. It also doesn't detail the specific concerns that led to the project's suspension last year.
False Dichotomy
The article presents a false dichotomy between Greece's position and Turkey's position, simplifying a complex geopolitical situation. It frames the choice as either accepting Turkey's limited maritime claims or proceeding with the project, neglecting the possibility of negotiation or compromise.
Sustainable Development Goals
The Great Sea Interconnector project aims to improve energy security for Cyprus and connect Israel to the EU electricity grid, promoting sustainable energy access and potentially reducing reliance on less sustainable sources.