The Republic of Cyprus has the sovereign right to exploit its natural resources within the international law and order, Government Spokesman Stephanos Stephanou has stressed. Commenting on statements made by the Turkish Minister of European Community Affairs Egemen Bagis regarding Cyprus’ plans to exploit its natural gas resources in its Exclusive Economic Zone, Stephanou described it as unacceptable and provocative. “The government expresses its dissatisfaction to the continuous provocative statements against the Republic of Cyprus and its sovereign rights from Turkish officials“, he said. “This behaviour is unacceptable and condemnable. It shows that Turkey continues actions which are against the International Law and the Chapter of the UN causing openly a member state of the UN and the EU, such is the Republic of Cyprus, which Turkey violates through the force of arms since 1974 its independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity“, he added. Cyprus has signed a production-sharing contract with Houston-based Noble Energy. The company has a concession to explore for hydrocarbons in an offshore field in its Exclusive Economic Zone, south-east of Cyprus, known as Block 12. The Eastern Mediterranean area is believed to have a massive amount of natural gas resources. 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 was signed with Lebanon but the Lebanese Parliament has not yet ratified it. Stephanou pointed out that the international community and especially the European Union, in which Turkey inspires to be a member, must clearly and decisively send the message that provocations and threats are unacceptable. “Turkey must respect the international right and comply its behaviour“, he concluded. Cyprus has been divided since 1974, when Turkey invaded and occupied its northern third. Peace talks are currently underway between President Christofias and the leader of the Turkish Cypriot community to find a negotiated settlement that will reunite the country under a federal roof.