Cyprus on Monday issued international arrest warrants for the crew on a Turkish drilling ship exploring for natural gas in Nicosia’s “exclusive economic zone.’’
Cypriot State Secretary Vassilis Palmas told radio station Active that the warrants were issued because the crew was conducting research without the approval of the Nicosia government.
Palmas warned “those involved in illegal activities can be arrested, while the foreign ministry said it would raise the issue at a European Union summit on May 9.
The issue has reignited old tensions in the south-eastern Mediterranean Sea.
The island of Cyprus has been divided since 1974 into a predominantly Greek south, which is an EU member and a Turkish north whose sovereignty is recognised only by Ankara.
EU foreign policy chief Federica Mogherini expressed “grave concern’’ over Turkey’s intention to drill inside Cyprus’ exclusive economic zone.
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The ship is positioned 60 kilometres west of Cyprus.
She called on Ankara “to show restraint, respect the sovereign rights of Cyprus in its exclusive economic zone,” and refrain from illegal actions to which the bloc “will respond appropriately and in full solidarity” with Cyprus.
Turkey said on Friday its activities in the Eastern Mediterranean are legitimate under international law.
“Having the longest coastal line in the region, we will protect our own rights and interests within our continental shelf.
“The U.S. State Department on Sunday said Ankara’s move was highly provocative and risks raising tensions in the region.
“We urge Turkish authorities to halt these operations and encourage all parties to act with restraint,’’ the foreign ministry said. (NAN)