DEFENSE MINISTERS – TURKISH THREATS

Cypriot Defence Minister Demetris Eliades discussed Friday with his Greek counterpart Panos Beglitis, Turkish threats concerning gas exploration plans by Cyprus in its Exclusive Economic Zone, along with other issues concerning defence cooperation and issues of common interest.

Speaking after a long meeting in Athens, Eliades said that Cyprus and Greece are in constant coordination about defense and other issues. He reiterated that the Republic of Cyprus exercises its sovereign rights in its EEZ, with full respect for the International Law and remains committed to stability of the region. He added that Turkey, due to the lack arguments and international legitimacy of its positions, challenges and threatens, noting that Cyprus will not follow that path.

“We remain committed to international law, within the framework of a responsible and composed behavior”, he said adding that the international powers should protect the legitimate rights of the Republic in pursuit of its peaceful rights to use its national wealth.

The Greek Minister defended the sovereign right of Cyprus to proceed to energy researches, as established by the International Convention on the Law of the Sea and the UN Charter. Speaking about the recent Turkish threats, Beglitis said that Greece and Cyprus managed the situation “with the utmost composure and determination”.