The government is following closely developments in the wake of Turkish threats concerning oil and natural gas exploration in Cyprus` exclusive economic zone (EEZ), Minister of Defence Demetris Eliades said on Monday.

Eliades` comments came in response to remarks by Turkish officials as the Houston-based Noble Energy is expected to begin drilling at the end of September. Noble Energy has a concession to look for hydrocarbons in an offshore field in Cyprus` EEZ, south-east of Cyprus, known as Block 12.

“The government, acting in concert with Athens, is monitoring closely developments and takes all necessary actions on all levels as appropriate,“ Eliades said.

On Thursday, Turkish EU Minister and Chief Negotiator Egemen Bagis said that Turkey will not hesitate to deploy warships in the Mediterranean, if the Republic of Cyprus enters Turkish territorial waters during their oil exploration efforts in the Mediterranean.

Cyprus has been divided since 1974, when Turkey invaded and occupied its northern third. Turkey does not recognise the Republic of Cyprus and has said it will not talk to Nicosia, when it will assume the rotating six monthly EU presidency in the second half of next year.