Newsroom
Cyprus is not facing a fuel shortage at present, according to Transport Minister Alexis Vafeadis, who said authorities are actively tracking supplies and preparing for possible disruptions.
Speaking in Nicosia during a meeting of the European Transport Federation’s executive committee, Vafeadis explained that government services have already gathered key data and are maintaining close coordination with European partners. He referred to recent measures proposed by the European Commission, which aim to help EU countries respond if supply problems escalate. Cyprus, he said, is staying alert and ready to act if conditions worsen.
He pointed out that Cyprus faces unique challenges compared with mainland European countries because it has no land connections. As an island, it relies entirely on air and sea routes for fuel deliveries. This dependence requires careful planning, especially as instability in the Middle East has disrupted parts of the fuel supply chain. Authorities are monitoring developments closely to ensure any necessary steps can be taken without delay.
The issue has already been discussed at EU level, including at a recent informal meeting of ministers, where ideas for managing potential shortages were exchanged.
In a separate matter, Vafeadis addressed developments concerning the Larnaca port and marina project. He said his understanding with Larnaca’s mayor had been to follow a specific process, including presenting results of a land development study by the end of the month and allowing additional time for completion.
However, he indicated that the mayor has taken a different approach. Despite this, the government plans to continue along the original path and push the project forward. Vafeadis argued that construction work that is not in dispute should begin without waiting for every study to be finalized.
He stressed that there is no technical barrier preventing work on the marina from starting immediately and questioned the need for further delays. Instructions have already been given to the Ports Authority to begin consultations tied to implementation.
Acknowledging delays in the study process, the minister accepted responsibility and apologized to the people of Larnaca. He added that this should not justify postponing progress any further. The government’s goal, he said, is to demonstrate steady advancement on the project while continuing necessary studies in parallel.
