Cyprus has the sovereign right to explore and exploit its natural resources, Government Spokesman Stephanos Stephanou has stressed, adding that this right is non-negotiable.
In statements Wednesday at the Presidential Palace, Stephanou noted that Turkish actions in the Eastern Mediterranean – since Cyprus began exploration drilling of natural gas in its Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) – are in conflict with international law.
Invited to comment on a statement made Tuesday by EU Commissioner for Enlargement Stephan Fule who referred the parties to the International Court of Justice in The Hague for solving disputes, Stephanou said that this concerns a conflict between Turkey and international law, pointing out that it is not an issue between Turkey and the Republic of Cyprus.
“Turkey violates international law, threatens and provokes. The EU and the international community should ask Turkey to stop this behavior, which creates danger in the region”, he stressed.
Stephanou added that Cyprus’ right to continue its exploratory drilling in its EEZ should not be questioned, recalling that Nicosia, acting in the framework of international law, has delineated its EEZ with three countries in the region.
The Spokesman was also invited to comment on Tuesday’s statements by UNSG Special Advisor for Cyprus Alexander Downer on the issue, who said that if the two sides request “some sort of a mediating role”, the UN would consider the matter.
Stephanou reiterated that “exploration and exploitation of our natural resources constitutes a sovereign right of the Republic of Cyprus”, adding that this right is exercised by the government of the Republic.
“Our sovereign right is not negotiable. This is clear”, he stressed.
Replying to questions, the Spokesman said that Downer’s role is not a role of a mediator, it is rather a supportive role, adding “this is the role of the UN Secretary General, whom Downer represents. The position of the Republic of Cyprus and the government is clear”.
Turkey, whose troops occupy Cyprus’ northern part since they invaded in 1974, does not recognise the Republic of Cyprus. Following a decision by Nicosia to begin natural gas and oil exploration in its exclusive economic zone, Ankara has deployed warships in the Eastern Mediterranean and has signed an illegal agreement with the Turkish Cypriot regime in occupied Cyprus to delineate what it calls continental shelf.
Drilling has already begun and is being carried out by Houston-based “Noble Energy”, off Cyprus’ south-eastern coast.
The government of Cyprus has protested to the UN and the EU Turkey’s moves, saying it has a sovereign right to exploit its natural resources, pointing out that Greek Cypriots and Turkish Cypriots will benefit from any benefits that may come from oil drilling.
Cyprus has signed an agreement to delineate the Exclusive Economic Zone with Egypt and Israel with a view to exploit any possible natural gas and oil reserves in its EEZ. A similar agreement has been signed with Lebanon but the Lebanese Parliament has not yet ratified it.
