Despite repeated criticism from the EU, a Turkish drilling vessel will continue to search for natural gas off Cyprus. The state-owned Cypriot radio (RIK) reported today, citing a navigation security warning (NAVTEX) from the Turkish authorities. According to this, a Turkish drilling vessel, which has been located southwest of Cyprus for months, is to carry out further test drilling. The EU has repeatedly condemned these actions.
EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell announced yesterday that he would prepare further punitive measures against Turkey. These could be resolved if Ankara extends its natural gas exploration in the Eastern Mediterranean, which is considered illegal.
International energy companies have discovered natural gas deposits under the seabed off Cyprus in recent years. This led to severe tensions between Ankara and Nicosia. Turkey does not recognize Cyprus.
