Greece and Turkey tensions rise over Mediterranean energy projects

Geopolitical tensions between Greece and Turkey are intensifying as energy projects in the Aegean and Eastern Mediterranean reach critical milestones. Greece is advancing its ‘Hydrocarbons 2.0’ initiative, which includes the first offshore drilling in four decades and new seismic surveys in the Ionian Sea and south of Crete. Key international players, including ExxonMobil, Chevron, and Energean, are involved in these energy developments.

Simultaneously, the Great Sea Interconnector (GSI) project, aimed at an electrical interconnection between Greece and Cyprus, is moving forward with involvement from companies like Meridiam and Nexans.

In response, Turkey is maintaining its maritime claims, proposing marine parks in the Northern Aegean and Eastern Mediterranean, and preparing the ‘Blue Homeland’ bill for parliament. Historical diplomatic friction continues to shape the relationship, as both nations navigate long-standing disputes regarding maritime boundaries and international law.