MEPs call on Turkey to stop provocations in Cyprus’ exclusive economic zone

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2014-11-17

MEPs condemned Turkey’s “maritime survey” activities as encroaching upon the Republic of Cyprus’ exclusive economic zone and its sovereign right to explore the natural resources within it, in a resolution voted on Thursday. The text also calls on Turkey to stop its “provocative actions” and “threats” against the Republic of Cyprus.

Turkish maritime surveys “must be seen as both illegal and provocative”, MEPs said, stressing that they constitute a violation of the sovereign rights of the Republic of Cyprus and of international law. They added that Turkey should immediately withdraw its vessels operating in and around Cyprus’ exclusive economic zone.

Turkey’s “actions and threats undermine the continuation of negotiations for a comprehensive settlement of the Cyprus problem,” MEPs added, warning that their continuation or repetition “could have a negative impact on Turkey’s relations with the EU”.

“Any gas finds would benefit both communities in Cyprus if a lasting, political solution can be found to end the conflict”.

Source: European Parliament

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