Cyprus can emerge as a hub of sustainable connectivity for the entire Eastern Mediterranean region Minister of Transport, Communications and Works, Alexis Vafeades told the Global Gateway Forum (GGF2025), organized by the European Commission on October 9 and 10 in Brussels. The forum, inaugurated by the President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, focused on promoting global investments in infrastructure, aiming to enhance connectivity in the fields of digital technology, energy, and transport.
According to a Ministry announcement, Vafeades participated as a speaker in the thematic session “Driving sustainable and strategic transport connectivity,” where he highlighted Cyprus’ priorities for its upcoming EU Council Presidency in the first half of 2026. Among the key issues discussed were the need for connectivity in island and peripheral regions, with an emphasis on cooperation with neighboring and third countries, the expansion of the Trans-European Transport Network (TEN-T), and the strengthening of air and maritime connectivity.
The Minister emphasized that Cyprus’ approach is not limited to infrastructure development but aims to create a comprehensive and resilient ecosystem that supports sustainable economic growth, protects the environment, and ensures social inclusion. “Through strategic investments in green transport, smart infrastructure, and digital transformation, Cyprus can emerge as a hub of sustainable connectivity for the entire Eastern Mediterranean region,” he noted.
Additionally, Vafeades participated in a panel discussion on connectivity, geopolitical infrastructure, and the promotion of strategic cooperation in the Mediterranean region within the framework of the MEDUSA program. This program aims to connect Southern Europe with North Africa and the Middle East through a submarine cable system.
At the opening of the forum, von der Leyen announced that the European Union expects to mobilize over pound 400 billion by 2027 for the Global Gateway program. Originally designed to invest pound 300 billion (half of which was intended for Africa) at the interval of 2021 to 2027, the program serves as an alternative proposal compared to similar initiatives by other global powers, such as the Belt and Road Initiative of China.
“The Global Gateway is not just about infrastructure, but also about strengthening ties between continents, with the goal of mutual development and addressing common challenges such as climate change and energy transition,” said von der Leyen. “These investments will be directed towards critical sectors such as energy, transport, education, and research, and will include partnerships to secure raw materials essential for Europe’s green transition and to reduce our dependence on third countries,” she added.
Furthermore, the head of the Commission emphasized that the Global Gateway represents an alternative model of cooperation, focusing on sustainability, transparency, and social participation.
The forum concluded on the afternoon of Friday, October 10, with closing remarks by the Commissioner for International Partnerships, Jozef Síkela. The Commissioner highlighted the need to strengthen cooperation between Europe and Africa and to accelerate investments in critical infrastructure to address global challenges.