Former energy chief dies (updated)

Condolences poured in from political parties following the death of former energy chief and Disy MP Solon Kassinis on Tuesday. He was 70.

“Throughout his life, he was constantly involved with energy issues, serving in important posts, always with the same zeal, sense of duty, dedication and integrity that distinguished him,” Disy said.

“His work and commitment have been key to the advancement of hydrocarbon issues in our country”.
Akel, Diko and Dipa also issued statements expressing their condolences, with Akel saying he left his mark on the country’s energy policy, and Diko saying he was synonymous with it.

“We will always be grateful for his valuable and tireless services,” Dipa said.

Kassinis was one of the most important figures in energy diplomacy for Cyprus, having spearheaded negotiations in recent years which resulted in the demarcation of Exclusive Economic Zones (EEZ) with Egypt and Israel.

Between 2004 and 2014, he was a member of the board of the Cyprus Organisation for Storage and Management of Oil Stocks.

From 2005 to 2010 he was also chairman of the Cyprus Institute of Energy and Special Fund for Renewable Energy Sources and Energy Saving, and from March to September 2013 he was the executive vice-chairman of the Cyprus National Hydrocarbons Company (CNHC).

From April 2014 to January 2015, he was an energy advisor to the former Prime Minister of Greece, Antonis Samaras.

He was first elected as a Nicosia MP for Disy in the 2016 parliamentary elections, and was a member of the House energy committee. He resigned in November 2019 due to health issues.

Kassinis was born in Kato Zodia in 1952. He had a degree in Chemical Engineering, as well as diplomas in business administration and marketing.

He was married to Kika Christoforou, with whom he had three children.

His funeral will be held at 2pm on Wednesday, at Ayios Georgios church in Latsia.