“Our common task as leaders is to transform the Mediterranean Sea from a region of competing claims into a platform for cooperation,” President Nikos Christodoulides told the ‘For a More Connected Mediterranean’ summit, in Nice, France, on Monday.

He pointed out that “to do so, we must jointly advance three forms of strategic connectivity: physical, energy and digital.”

Referring to physical connectivity, Christodoulides said it was necessary to strengthen regional infrastructure. This, he said, included not only roads and ports, but modern logistics and efficient trade corridors, through sustainable progress.

On energy connectivity, he said the eastern Mediterranean was rapidly becoming a focal point in Europe’s evolving energy landscape.

“New hydrocarbon discoveries, combined with vast renewable potential, transform our region to a key energy corridor – an important alternative and complementary source for Europe. It is also a potential hub for energy cooperation across continents, promoting geopolitical stability,” he said.

Christodoulides said he firmly believed “energy can be a source of cooperation, not contention.”

“It is an opportunity to create mutually beneficial outcomes for all involved – advancing our countries, our region, and our societies,” he explained. 

The president said “our vision is inclusive, open to all who respect international legality and reject revisionism.” 

Referring to digital connectivity, he pointed out that the Mediterranean held untapped potential to become a digital bridge between continents, but this required investment, trust and shared standards.

“Cyprus is ready to contribute, working with partners to promote secure digital infrastructure and literacy,” he added.

Christodoulides also said the Mediterranean “is more than our shared sea – it is our shared destiny.”

“Let us seize this moment to chart a course towards connectivity that empowers our economies, respects our environment and unites our peoples. Cyprus stands ready to partner with all those who believe in multilateralism, cooperation and rule-based international order,” he added.

On the sidelines of the Summit, the Christodoulides held brief discussions with French President Emmanuel Macron and Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis, as well as other leaders participating in the summit.