Cyprus President Nikos Christodoulides met with Javier La Rosa, a top Chevron executive, in New York on Monday evening to review progress on the development of the Aphrodite gas field and broader energy cooperation.

According to government spokesman Konstantinos Letymbiotis, this was Christodoulides’ first meeting with La Rosa since he assumed leadership of Chevron’s BAEC division. Discussions centred on project schedules, with the Cypriot government stressing the importance of sticking to agreed timelines.

Work is already advancing offshore, with geological and geotechnical surveys underway since June to prepare for subsea installations and the planned export pipeline to Egypt. Authorities expect the pre-FEED phase to conclude before the end of 2025.

Christodoulides and Chevron agreed to maintain close and frequent communication, both directly and through the Energy Ministry, to avoid delays. The president highlighted that a recent energy agreement with Egypt creates favourable conditions for moving the project forward faster.

The Aphrodite discovery, Cyprus’ first natural gas find, is considered a cornerstone of the island’s energy strategy. Christodoulides described Chevron’s involvement as a clear endorsement of the country’s energy prospects and an important boost to Cyprus’ ties with the United States, which he called a strategic partner.

Letymbiotis noted that Chevron’s continued engagement in Cyprus’ Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) reflects long-term trust and strengthens the country’s regional position. Officials emphasize that once production begins, the project is expected to bring significant economic benefits and contribute to energy security for Cypriot consumers.