Building on 20 Years of Cooperation for the Energy EU Integration Ahead: Energy Community Celebrates in Athens
High-level representatives from across Europe gathered this evening at the historic Zappeion Hall in Athens to mark the 20th anniversary of the Energy Community.
Hosted by the Greek Ministry of Environment and Energy, the gala celebrated two decades of shared commitment to deeper EU integration, aligned markets, and climate resilience.
The Energy Community Secretariat expressed its deep appreciation to the Greek Ministry of Environment and Energy for hosting the anniversary celebrations and for its enduring leadership. From the Treaty’s signing in Athens to today’s milestone, Greece has remained a steadfast partner in building a more integrated, secure, and sustainable energy future.
Founded in 2005 with the signing of the Treaty of Athens—at the same venue the gala was held—the Energy Community has become a cornerstone of energy cooperation across South-Eastern and Eastern Europe. Over the past two decades, it has helped Contracting Parties align with hundreds of EU legal standards, reform national energy systems, and strengthen regional energy infrastructure, all to integrate into the EU energy market.
"Our region has suffered a lot from divisions and conflicts. Now, it is high time we build on this collective knowledge and experience of the past, leaving this disadvantage behind, and move forward to a bright future, said Stavros Papastavrou, Minister of Environment and Energy for Greece during his keynote address. "Energy connectivity is only the beginning. Beyond electricity, we must strengthen our physical interconnections, from roads to grids to digital infrastructure. Connectivity should be the foundation of unity, which should not be lagging behind Central and Northern Europe."
The evening's lineup of keynote speakers included European Commissioner for Energy Dan Jørgensen, Minister Stavros Papastavrou, and Ambassador Per Fabricius Andersen, representing the EU Council Presidency. Their addresses reinforced the Energy Community Secretariat’s role in providing platform for EU institutions, Contracting Parties, and regional partners to meet the twin imperatives of market integration and climate alignment.
“From Athens in 2005 to Athens in 2025, the Energy Community has proven that regional cooperation produces stable, future-ready energy systems,” said Energy Community Secretariat Director, Artur Lorkowski in his welcoming address. “The next chapter is about accelerating integration with the EU and using it to drive climate ambition, boost energy security, and support a fair transition for all.”
The evening featured live Greek orchestral music, a documentary screening, and reflections from long-time contributors and today’s energy leaders.
