United States and Eastern Mediterranean partners launch energy cooperation initiative in Houston

Energy officials from Cyprus, Greece, Israel, and the United States met in Houston to formally inaugurate the Eastern Mediterranean Energy Centre (EMEC), based at Rice University's Baker Institute. The meeting, part of the 3+1 Energy Dialogue, resulted in a commitment to draft a cooperation roadmap by the end of the year. Participants agreed to focus on energy security, natural gas resource development, research, innovation, and regional infrastructure connectivity. A new working group specifically tasked with addressing cybersecurity and the physical protection of vital infrastructure was also established. While officials described the meeting as a significant geostrategic step to enhance regional stability, some critics argued that previous dialogues have lacked practical results. The discussions also emphasized the relevance of the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC) for future supply chain security. The delegation included Cypriot Energy Minister Michalis Damianos, Greek Energy Minister Stavros Papastavrou, Israeli Ambassador Yechiel Leiter, and US Energy Secretary Chris Wright. Turkey reportedly views these developments as a potential shift in regional geopolitics.