Natural resources belong to the state, Presidential Commissioner for humanitarian issues and overseas Cypriots said on Sunday, while noting that Turkish Cypriots will be able to enjoy the benefits of hydrocarbon resources after a Cyprus settlement.

Speaking during a memorial service in Nicosia, for members of the Maronite community fallen during the 1974 Turkish invasion, Photiou said that Turkey has disrupted the positive climate in Cyprus with its activity in the exclusive economic zone, making the continuation of settlement talks  “particularly problematic”.

“Eliminating Turkey`s illegal acts and provocations is a necessary precondition for the continuation of suspended talks” he said, while noting that no dialogue can take place under threats.

Only when these conditions are met and Turkey has shown respect for Cyprus` sovereign rights the talks can start again, he concluded.

Cyprus has been divided since 1974, when Turkey invaded and occupied its northern third.

President of the Republic of Cyprus Nicos Anastasiades decided to suspend his participation in the UN-backed negotiations for a solution to the Cyprus problem, after Turkish seismic exploration vessel Barbaros entered Cyprus` exclusive economic zone, a few days after Turkey had issued an illegal maritime order (NAVTEX) for the area.