The European Public Prosecutor’s Office (EPPO) has launched an investigation into possible criminal offences related to the electricity interconnection project, President Nikos Christodoulides said on Wednesday evening.
Speaking to reporters on his way to an event honouring the heroes of Achyronas in Liopetri, the President was asked about the Republic of Cyprus’ position on the project. He stressed that Nicosia’s stance is clear and unified: “The project is of strategic importance. Its viability depends on the implementation of commitments undertaken by the implementing body, ADMIE, and we expect those commitments to be delivered.”
Christodoulides revealed that the Legal Service had been formally informed by EPPO that, following a series of complaints investigated over time, a case has now been opened into potential criminal offences concerning the project. When asked who might be implicated, he said no names were mentioned.
Responding to speculation, he added: “This government, and I will keep repeating it, is here to ensure there is no shadow cast over the Republic of Cyprus. On this matter there is absolutely no room for discussion. Those making statements should be more careful, especially when it comes to the name, reputation, and credibility of our country. No one is above that.”
Asked whether there are differences with the Greek government, the President replied: “There are no differences. ADMIE has obligations, and for the project to be viable, these obligations must be met.”
On whether accountability will also be sought regarding the Vasiliko LNG terminal, Christodoulides noted that EPPO has already opened a separate investigation into that project as well. “We are awaiting the results of the European Prosecutor’s investigation, and of course, we will also await the report from the company tasked with updating us on the current state of the project.”
Finally, asked if the two EPPO probes – one into the interconnector and the other into Vasiliko – could cause delays, he acknowledged: “Of course they cause delays. But above all, what matters is the reputation and credibility of our country. No one has the right to play with that.”