During the presentation and signing of leasing contracts between the Greek state and the Chevron-HELLENiQ ENERGY consortium for four maritime areas south of Crete and the Peloponnese, Minister of Environment and Energy Stavros Papastavrou highlighted the geopolitical importance of this agreement. He stated, "The country is not merely taking a step, it is making a leap," and welcomed Chevron, one of the world's top oil companies. This partnership is seen as a significant enhancement of Greece's energy security at a time when the role of hydrocarbons in the upcoming years is being increasingly recognized.

Papastavrou pointed out that the energy strategy of Greece has evolved considerably, with a fivefold increase in resources directed towards infrastructure in the past five years compared to the previous decade. He stressed the importance of interconnections and the need for Greece to adapt to changing energy markets. This agreement with Chevron is part of a broader national effort to solidify Greece's position in the energy landscape of the eastern Mediterranean, which is critical given the region's geopolitical dynamics.

The minister's comments reflect a growing recognition within Greece of the necessity to develop and utilize its hydrocarbon resources. In a period of heightened energy demands and geopolitical tensions, this agreement with Chevron marks a pivotal moment for Greek energy policy and aims to provide a foundation for future energy independence and security, assuring that Greece can play an influential role in the energy market while pursuing its national interests.