The Council of parliamentary political party leaders has unanimously condemned Turkish actions within the Republic of Cyprus’ Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) and supports the government’s effort to protect the Republic’s sovereign rights and the unimpeded continuation of energy plans, as Government Spokesman Nikos Christodoulides said.

Christodoulides was conveying the Council’s decision after the meeting of the body under Cyprus President Nicos Anastasiades’ chairmanship, which took place, at the Presidential Palace.

Members of the Leaders Council were informed by Cyprus President “about Turkey’s illegal actions within the Republic of Cyprus’ EEZ, as well as the government’s actions so far and its intentions on how to manage the state of affairs as it has developed,” the Spokesman said.

He added that parliamentary party leaders expressed their views and conveyed their thoughts specifically as to the state of affairs as it has developed as well as on the steps they consider the government should take.

“The Council of Leaders unanimously condemns Turkish actions within the Republic of Cyprus’ EEZ, supports the government’s efforts to protect the Republic of Cyprus’ sovereign rights and the unimpeded continuation of energy plans,” Christodoulides stressed.

Parties, he continued, “maintain their view in relation with the way and the measures with which the situation should be dealt with.”

He did not wish to make further comments in respect to the decision of party leaders.

Drillship Saipem 12000, commissioned by Italian energy company ENI, was halted on the 9th of February by Turkish warships en route to a location within block 3 of Cyprus`  EEZ.

Cyprus has been divided since 1974 when Turkey invaded and occupied its northern third.

A Conference on Cyprus in the context of UN led talks for the reunification of Cyprus under a federal roof, which took place in the Swiss resort of Crans-Montana last summer ended without an agreement.