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EP President calls on Turkey to refrain from illegal activities in Cyprus' EEZ

07/05/2019 09:51

European Parliament (EP) President Antonio Tajani has called on Turkey to refrain from illegal activities in the exclusive economic zone (EEZ) of Cyprus, recalling the November 2014 EP resolution, while expressing great concern on the plans announced by Turkey.

More specifically the EP President stated in his message: "I am greatly concerned by Turkey’s plans to drill offshore within the exclusive economic zone (EEZ) of Cyprus".

"I call on the Turkish authorities to show restraint and act in accordance with international law by ceasing illegal operations and removing support vessels from the EEZ of Cyprus immediately", he said, adding that "in this regard, I recall the European Parliament resolution of 13 November 2014 on Turkish action causing tension in the EEZ of Cyprus".
 
“Turkey’s intention to drill within the EEZ of Cyprus is a violation of international law", the EP President clarifies. "The Republic of Cyprus has the full and sovereign right to explore and exploit natural resources within its EEZ", he reiterated.
 
“On behalf of the European Parliament, I reiterate our full solidarity with the government and the people of Cyprus. We stand with Cyprus in safeguarding its rights underpinned by international and European law", Antonio Tajani conluded.