CYPRUS: Government takes measures to deal with Turkish threats in EEZ

Minister of Defence Christoforos Fokaides said on Sunday that Turkey`s threats in Cyprus` EEZ cannot be accepted, especially at a time when the international community seeks ways, based on international law, to address the new challenges for security, such as terrorism and the rise of fundamentalism.

He pointed out that the government of Cyprus is taking all necessary measures to deal with Turkey`s provocative actions in Cyprus` EEZ.

Fokaides said that the government will remain committed to its energy plans and strategic goals, noting that Turkey`s provocations and threats aim to change Nicosia`s plans as regards the exploitation of its hydrocarbon reserves.

What is of importance right now, he went on to add, is that the ENI – KOGAS consortium continues its work unhindered.

Consortium ENI/KOGAS has been granted exploration licenses in Cyprus` EEZ, namely in Blocks 2,3 and 9. ENI completed 2 seismic surveys, and is planning to drill 6 wells in the coming 18 months.

Exploration and appraisal drilling in Block 12 of Cyprus` EEZ by Noble Energy & Delek has shown estimated reserves of 3.6 Tcf to 6 Tcf, namely 5 Tcf. Further exploration is planned by the consortium.

Turkey issued recently a NAVTEX (Navigational Telex), a notice to mariners advising that it was reserving areas south of Cyprus for seismic surveys from October 20 to December 30.

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