Israel and Lebanon should bilaterally arrange issues concerning the delimitation of their Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon said here today, adding his concern about the deteriorating relations between Turkey and Israel.

Speaking during a press conference at the UN Headquarters, Ban was asked to comment about Turkish-Israeli relations and Ankara’s recent threats against Israel and Cyprus, concerning the delimitation of their EEZ and the initiation of drillings in the area for the exploitation of hydrocarbon reserves.

Ban did not comment on the aspect concerning Cyprus. He noted that he was aware of the dispute between Lebanon and Israel and that he received letters from the respective sides.

He added that he was very concerned about the deteriorating relations of Turkey and Israel, following the release of the Palmer report. “These are two very important nations in the region and their harmonious cooperation is very important for peace and stability in the region” Ban noted, adding that he hoped their relations would normalize soon.