Eroglu argues that the aim of launching seismic exploration is to protect their “rights” in Eastern Mediterranean

Turkish Cypriot daily Kibris (30.09.11) reports that the Turkish Cypriot leader Dervis Eroglu has argued that the aim of the Turkish seismic exploration in Eastern Mediterranean is to protect their so-called rights in the area. In statements yesterday during a meeting with a delegation from the Turkish Cypriot Chamber of Industry headed by Ali Cirali, Eroglu alleged that their aim by going to the area (Tr. Note: By sending the ship under the name of Piri Reis) after the “Greek Cypriot administration”, as he described the Republic of Cyprus, launched its drilling was not to create a climate of conflict.

In further claims, Eroglu reminded his proposal to the UN Secretary-General in New York after the start of the drilling by the Republic of Cyprus and argued that Ban Ki-moon thought that this proposal was positive. He noted that at the same time, the USA has also stated that this proposal was reasonable and acceptable. He argued that this derives from the “sincere continuation of the will of the Turkish side for a really lasting and just solution”.

Eroglu said that the ship named Piri Reis is currently carrying out exploration on behalf of the “TRNC”, breakaway regime in the occupied area of Cyprus, near parcel 12 where the Republic of Cyprus is conducting its drilling. He said that the Turkish side is determined to defend its rights and, if needed, equipment for drilling will be secured, like the Turkish Minister of Energy had stated.

Referring to the Cyprus talks, Eroglu reiterated the Turkish view that the solution to be reached should become primary law of the European Union and noted that in spite of the fact that President Christofias does not accept this, they insist on this issue because it is necessary for the viability of the solution. He said that during their meeting today they would discuss the issue of internal security and if the issue is approached with good will, there is no reason why it could not be solved.

Eroglu said that disagreement exists on the property issue and added that on the issue of territory, the Turkish side wants the displacement of as few people as possible. He argued that the developments in 1974 could not be disregarded.

Eroglu noted that after the meeting on Friday, a give and take procedure could begin on certain issues and added that some things will be further clarified during the two-day long tripartite summit to be held in New York in the end of October.

Eroglu alleged that the UN has also accepted that the Turkish side works with all its power for a lasting and viable solution in Cyprus and argued that this is an important success. He said that they will continue their stance until the end of the process.

Meanwhile, Turkish Cypriot daily Gunes (30.09.11) reports that in statements yesterday during the opening ceremony of the agricultural, livestock, dairy products and heavy machinery fair in the occupied part of Lefkosia, Eroglu underlined the importance of land in farming and noted that the territory is one of the most important chapters in the Cyprus negotiations. Referring to the farmers, Eroglu said: “As long as you work these lands and protect them, the foundations of the state become stronger and my strength at the negotiating table increases”.

Noting that today they would discuss the issue of the police with President Christofias and that the guarantees would also be brought onto the agenda, Eroglu said that their stance on these issues is known and no one should worry. He alleged that the Turkish side continues its efforts for a mutually accepted agreement and added that they would see on 30 and 31 October in New York if this is possible.

Furthermore, Gunes (30.09.11) reports that in statements during a meeting with the producers of occupied Limnitis area, Eroglu said that the Turkish Cypriot side wants the opening of a crossing point in Lefka after the opening of the Limnitis-Pyrgos crossing point. Underlining the economic importance of this crossing point for the Turkish Cypriots, Eroglu noted that this issue will again be brought onto the agenda of his meetings with President Christofias.

Eroglu noted that after the tripartite summit in New York, the road which they will follow will be determined. He said that everything has a beginning and an end and argued that his wish is for the Cyprus negotiations to end with an agreement.