Possible deposits of hydrocarbons in Cyprus` exclusive economic zone would give prospects of great and long-term economic growth and at the same time place Cyprus on Europe`s energy map, giving it the opportunity to contribute to the EU energy security, Minister of Commerce, Industry and Tourism Praxoulla Antoniadou said on Wednesday. Addressing the opening of the Cyprus-Greece Chemistry Conference, titled “The contribution of chemistry to human culture – Past, present and future“, in the southern coastal town of Limassol, Antoniadou said Cyprus is at “a new point of its development effort,“ however “the heavy financial climate has affected us on a local level as well.“ Referring to exploration for hydrocarbons in Cyprus` exclusive economic zone, Antoniadou said that any deposits of hydrocarbons found “will give prospects of great and long-term economic growth and at the same time place Cyprus on Europe`s energy map, giving it the opportunity to contribute to the EU energy security.“ She also said that Cyprus is anxiously monitoring developments regarding Greece`s economy and expressed hope that “through the effective handling of the state, the solidarity of the European family and the strength of the Greek people, it will be possible for this hard period to close in the near future.“