The Left group in the European Parliament denounces Turkey’s declared intention to proceed with drilling in the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) of the Republic of Cyprus. Ankara’s stand violates the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) and undermines efforts aiming at the resumption of negotiations on the Cyprus problem. We express our full solidarity with the Republic of Cyprus and call on the EU institutions to make all the necessary representations to stop such actions.

We are convinced that the most effective way to address Turkey’s provocative actions is through the solution of the Cyprus problem based on the agreed framework of bicommunal bizonal federation, a position we have always proclaimed. The delimitation of the EEZ between Cyprus and Turkey can only take place on the basis of UNCLOS and not through the escalation of tension in the Eastern Mediterranean. The discovery of natural resources off the coast of Cyprus must be for the benefit of all Cypriots, as the convergences recorded in past negotiations provide for, as well as a catalyst for peaceful and mutually beneficial cooperation in the wider region.