Greece remains firm in exercising its sovereign rights in the Eastern Mediterranean, without seeking external validation, said Environment and Energy Minister Stavros Papastavrou in an exclusive interview on Proto Thema’s Direct show with journalist Giorgos Evgenidis.

Speaking on Greece’s strategic positioning in the energy chessboard of the region, Mr. Papastavrou stressed the nation’s autonomous right to manage its Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) and energy resources. “We don’t ask anyone for permission to exercise our sovereign rights,” he emphasized.

The Minister highlighted the benefits of establishing marine no-activity zones in Greek waters, both for environmental protection and resource management. He announced that these zones will be monitored by modern drone surveillance systems to ensure compliance and transparency.

Turkey’s Limits and the Eastern Mediterranean

Regarding tensions with Turkey, Papastavrou made it clear that Ankara cannot establish marine parks in the Aegean Sea beyond its territorial waters. “International law is very clear on this matter,” he said, adding that Greece remains vigilant but committed to peace and legal order.

Chevron’s Continued Interest and U.S. Engagement

Turning to the hydrocarbon exploration south of Crete, the Minister confirmed that Chevron’s interest remains unwavering, and development proceeds according to schedule. “There was no sign of hesitation whatsoever,” he noted, referring to a recent phone call with a senior executive at the U.S. energy giant.

He further revealed that the U.S. Secretary of Energy is scheduled to visit Greece in November, underscoring the deepening bilateral ties between Athens and Washington in the energy sector.

Despite rhetoric coming from Libya, Papastavrou affirmed that the Libyan government respects the median line in the Mediterranean and does not operate based on the contested Turkey-Libya maritime memorandum.

Energy as a Passport to U.S. Relations under Trump 2.0

With an eye on the evolving geopolitical landscape, the Minister stressed that energy security in the Southeastern Mediterranean is now a fundamental pillar of national security and a strategic “passport” for closer cooperation with the upcoming Trump administration.

Critical Infrastructure Projects: Great Sea Interconnector & IMEC

Papastavrou also touched on progress surrounding two major energy infrastructure projects:

• The Great Sea Interconnector, a subsea electricity cable linking Greece, Cyprus, and Israel, and
• IMEC (India-Middle East-Europe Corridor), a long-term initiative designed to boost energy and trade flow from Asia to Europe via the Mediterranean.

“These projects are not just energy initiatives. They are strategic tools that enhance Greece’s international profile,” Papastavrou concluded.