Note: Single-source report; awaiting corroboration.
U.S. Secretary of Energy Chris Wright signed a Declaration of Intent with representatives from Cyprus, Greece, Israel, and Rice University to establish the Eastern Mediterranean Energy Center (EMEC), forming a framework for enhanced cooperation on energy issues among these nations.
The agreement advances the initiative outlined in the Eastern Mediterranean Security and Energy Partnership Act of 2019 and aims to strengthen partnerships while expanding opportunities for U.S. energy development, innovation, and investment.
EMEC will focus on collaboration in areas such as natural gas development, U.S. liquefied natural gas (LNG) infrastructure, energy transportation networks, grid reliability, critical infrastructure resilience, and emerging technologies. It will also promote scientific and technical exchanges, research partnerships, workforce development, and industry engagement.
Rice University in Houston will host the center, fostering cooperation among member nations and industry leaders in hydrocarbon development to support regional stability, economic growth, and global energy security.
This initiative underscores the U.S. commitment to expanding energy leadership and securing an energy-abundant future for the United States and its allies, with the U.S. leading in oil, natural gas production, and LNG exports.