By persisting with drilling activities in Cyprus’ exclusive economic zone, Turkey is sending the wrong message, German foreign ministry spokesperson Christopher Burger has said, according to the Cyprus-mail news website.
Speaking during a briefing Burger said that EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell has a mandate to hold discussions with Turkey about joint relations.
“German Foreign Minister Heiko Maas supports Josep Borrell,” he said, adding that “we have, however, unambiguous expectations vis-à-vis Turkey. We expect positive steps towards de-escalation in the Eastern Mediterranean. But yesterday’s announcements by Turkey to continue drilling in Cyprus are the wrong message.”
Turkish drill ship Yavuz arrived last April in the exclusive economic zone (ΕΕΖ) of Cyprus, after Ankara announced another attempt to drill a well in blocks licensed to European companies.
This is the sixth time Turkey is attempting to drill within the EEZ and continental shelf of the Republic of Cyprus, this time in an area that covers part of exploration blocks 6 and 7, which have been licensed to ENI and Total.