ENERGY: Cyprus issues navtex as ExxonMobil drillship is set to arrive in Limassol

Stena IceMax, a drillship commissioned by US energy giant ExxonMobil to explore for hydrocarbons in block 10 of Cyprus’ exclusive economic zone, is expected to arrive within days at Limassol.

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On Saturday morning, the authorities of the Republic of Cyprus issued a navigational telex (navtex) for the target “Delphini”, valid until February 25.

“The drilling rig is expected to arrive within the timeframe set, according to schedule, Sunday or the day after,” a well-informed source told CNA.

According to the same source, “everything proceeds smoothly and according to plan”.

The navtex 376/18 issued by Cyprus on Saturday morning, at 6.00 am local time (4.00 am GMT), informs mariners about the drilling operations of Stena IceMax at the “Delphini” target area.

Drilling operations are expected to commence on November 15.

The navtex establishes a safety zone of 500 meters around Stena IceMax and entering this area is prohibited for any reason.

“Violation of the safety zone will be considered a criminal offence against the laws of the Republic of Cyprus and the 1982 UN Convention on the Law of the Sea,” the navtex concludes.

Exxon Mobil was awarded, together with Qatar Petroleum the exploration licence in block 10 of Cyprus’ EEZ.

Turkey opposes international oil companies exploring for energy off Cyprus waters and threatens to take action.