We have repeatedly and strongly emphasized that in the Eastern Mediterranean, we will not cease to protect our rights stemming from international law and rights and interests of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus, despite all of the unintelligible steps of the European Union.

The decisions taken today (11 November) at the European Union Foreign Affairs Council meeting clearly demonstrates that our messages following Council meetings of July 15 and October 14, 2019, have completely fallen on deaf ears.

From 2004 until today, Turkey and TRNC have exerted benevolent efforts to turn the hydrocarbon resources in the Eastern Mediterranean into an element of stability rather than of tension, as the side having taken all the constructive and positive initiatives.

The Greek Cypriot Administration (GCA) and the EU -as misused by GCA’s maximalist positions, can neither perceive the facts, nor take decisions in accordance with international law and the principle of equity in this process.

We have consistently stated since 2004 that naturally, we will not allow the unilateral usurpation of our rights. EU’s unrequited and incomprehensible support to a null and void administration disregarding international law, as well as the falling hostage of an important opportunity for cooperation in the Easter Mediterranean should indeed serve as a case in point.

We will continue to encourage the implementation of fundamental principles of international law as well as cooperation in the region towards lasting stability and welfare of all the peoples in the Eastern Mediterranean. It is evident that the EU, on the contrary having lost a long time ago its credibility to stand as an impartial actor that could contribute to a solution in Cyprus, will never be able to take a constructive and helpful attitude in the Eastern Mediterranean.

As a matter of fact, it couldn't be more ironic for the EU to make reference to the principle of good neighborliness after the launch of our off-shore activities as it has become deaf to our repeated calls since 2004 for respect for sovereignty and legitimate rights of both Turkey and TRNC.

It is a vain expectation for those who think that Turkey will bow to threats and back down on its rights in the Eastern Mediterranean. No one should doubt that we will continue our exploration and drilling activities in the Eastern Mediterranean.