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A NAVTEX* authorising the resumption of surveys for the installation of the Cyprus–Crete electricity interconnector (GSI) is expected to be issued, most likely over the weekend, bringing an end to a major outstanding issue not only for this important project itself, but also for Greece’s exercise of its sovereign rights.
According to reports, on 2 November members of the special interministerial committee (EXAETH), which operates under the auspices of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, were briefed and asked to submit their recommendations on the project’s licensing by tomorrow, Friday. If the expected positive decision is given, the Hellenic Coast Guard will issue an ‘exemption permit’ for the French-flagged vessel Abeille Marengo. The project management company will then submit an official request for the issuance of a NAVTEX, which will be forwarded to the Ministry of National Defence, allowing the Hellenic Navy Hydrographic Service to issue the notice without delay.
According to the same sources, the NAVTEX will take effect immediately. This means that the French research vessel, which remains in the port of Heraklion, will set sail for the survey area as soon as it is issued.
Well-informed sources believe that the prevailing circumstances, particularly following the US midterm elections, have created a favourable window for the resumption of the surveys and reduced the likelihood of a repeat of the 2024 incident, when the work was halted following the intervention of Turkish warships.
*NAVTEX (NAVigational TEleX), sometimes styled Navtex or NavTex, is an international automated medium frequency direct-printing service for delivery of navigational and meteorological warnings and forecasts, as well as urgent maritime safety information (MSI) to ships.
Source: Wikipedia