Turkey is preparing to submit a bill to parliament that would formally codify its maritime claims in disputed areas of the Aegean and the Eastern Mediterranean, potentially opening a new chapter of tension in the region, Bloomberg reported.
Citing anonymous sources with knowledge of the matter, Bloomberg said the legislative initiative is seen as a first step towards the official registration and consolidation of Turkey’s claims, including areas believed to hold existing or potential natural gas reserves.
According to the report, Ankara’s move could further heighten already strained relations in the region, particularly given its long-running dispute with Greece over maritime jurisdiction.
The report has drawn immediate attention in Turkish media, which say the planned legislation aims to create a legal framework underpinning Turkey’s claims in the Aegean and the Mediterranean.
Bloomberg’s sources added that Ankara views the initiative as a form of “official declaration” of its claims over potential energy resources.
Turkish media also underline Bloomberg’s assessment that the proposed legislation is of particular importance in the context of longstanding Greek-Turkish differences over maritime zones.
It is also noted that a similar report appeared in the Turkish newspaper Milliyet last Sunday. However, Bloomberg’s account is seen as based on additional information from sources on the Turkish side.
According to available information, the maps accompanying media reports in Turkey do not appear to be directly linked to the draft bill currently under preparation.
Source: edotourkia.gr
