Greece is collaborating with Israel to develop artificial intelligence (AI) technology for early detection of wildfires. Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis announced this partnership after meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Cypriot President Nikos Christodoulides in Nicosia. The three leaders also discussed the possibility of Israel becoming involved in the European Union’s civil protection initiatives to better coordinate firefighting efforts.
Greece, Israel, and Cyprus have all sent firefighting aircraft and crews to help battle the devastating wildfires that have ravaged Greece in recent months. The largest blaze on record in the EU resulted in the loss of 20 lives. Mitsotakis expressed that Greece could serve as a testing ground for Israeli AI technology in early wildfire detection, emphasizing his country’s interest in exploring AI-based solutions.
Netanyahu echoed Mitsotakis’ sentiments, stating that the three leaders had discussed deploying AI systems for early detection and aiming to go beyond conventional firefighting efforts. He emphasized the benefits of collaboration, saying that together they could achieve better results. This indicates the leaders’ recognition of the potential of AI technology to enhance their firefighting capabilities.
In addition to discussing AI technology for wildfire detection, the three leaders also explored opportunities for utilizing recent natural gas discoveries in Israeli and Cypriot waters. They are considering plans for a pipeline to transport offshore natural gas from both countries to Cyprus, where it could be liquefied for export by ship. The leaders emphasized the importance of natural gas and renewable energy as pillars of regional cooperation, especially in light of geopolitical developments and energy insecurity in Europe.
Another project that captured the leaders’ interest was an undersea electricity cable linking the power grids of Israel, Cyprus, and mainland Greece. This ambitious 2,000-kilometer cable could significantly increase energy interconnectivity in the region. Netanyahu expressed their eagerness to pursue this project and discussed the necessary steps for its advancement.
The focus on energy has been a key aspect of ongoing meetings between Greece, Israel, and Cyprus since 2016. The leaders recognize the significance of deepening ties between their countries on political, economic, and other levels. These collaborations and discussions demonstrate their commitment to innovation and cooperation in areas such as AI technology, natural gas utilization, and energy interconnectivity.
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