“Greek Energy Ministers in Brussels: Big Network Deals and Crucial Talks with Rutte and Birol!”

Greek officials Stavros Papastavrou and Nikos Tsafos are set to travel to Brussels on Monday, December 15, to participate in the Council of EU Energy Ministers.

According to the official agenda, the ministers will also discuss the link between energy and security with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, examining the vulnerabilities of energy infrastructure and ways to strengthen coordination between energy policy and security policy, both short-term and long-term.

The Greek Ministry of Energy arrives with a full agenda, aiming for a first agreement on the EU networks. The Council is expected to reach a “partial general approach” regarding the “Connecting Europe” mechanism for 2028–2034. This EU funding program promotes growth, employment, inclusiveness, and competitiveness through the effective interconnection of transport, energy, and digital networks within and between member states.

The European Commission’s Grids Package, presented on December 10, carries a strong Greek imprint. It is seen as a validation of Prime Minister Mitsotakis’ policy, and the result of a coordinated strategy by the Ministry of Energy, highlighting key challenges in the European energy market.

The proposal is part of the broader Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF) negotiations post-2027, providing the legal basis for investments in trans-European transport and energy infrastructure, including cross-border renewable energy projects. The aim is to modernize and expand European networks to support rapid electrification and provide households and businesses with affordable, secure, and clean energy.

Within the Council framework, Minister Papastavrou will update his counterparts on the energy agreements signed during the P-TEC Summit, the Transatlantic Energy Cooperation held in Greece last November, agreements with Ukraine, and ongoing hydrocarbon exploration. This underscores Greece’s enhanced role as a key gateway for non-Russian gas, supporting energy security for Southeast European countries via the Vertical Corridor.

Additionally, Cyprus will present its upcoming Presidency program of the Council. During a working lunch, ministers will discuss European supply security and competitiveness in a rapidly changing global energy landscape, with the participation of IEA Executive Director Fatih Birol.

Source: pagenews.gr