Turkey's Ministry of National Defence has repeated Ankara's objections to the planned electricity interconnector between Greece and the Republic of Cyprus, warning that it will not permit activities it considers unauthorised within areas it claims as part of its continental shelf.
In a new statement on the proposed undersea cable route, the ministry said that, under international law, any cable-laying, pipeline construction or scientific research activity carried out on what Turkey regards as its continental shelf must be coordinated in advance with Ankara.
Ankara restates Mediterranean claims
“Within the framework of the rights and authorities arising from its status as a coastal state, our country will not permit any unauthorised activity on its continental shelf in the Eastern Mediterranean,” the ministry said.
Turkey also linked its position to maritime agreements it has concluded with Libya and the Turkish Cypriot administration in the north, referring to maritime claims it submitted to the United Nations in March 2020.
Criticism of Cyprus defence activities
Separately, the Turkish defence ministry commented on a recent military parade in Cyprus, saying it had monitored the event closely.
It argued that the Republic of Cyprus' ongoing defence procurement efforts and military cooperation with third countries negatively affect what it described as the island's delicate balance and climate of trust.
The ministry also accused both Athens and Nicosia of pursuing “provocative actions”, claiming they do not contribute to efforts aimed at strengthening mutual confidence and instead increase tensions in the region.
Reference to Turkish Cypriot status
Ankara further repeated its longstanding position in support of what it describes as the “sovereign equality” and “equal international status” of the Turkish Cypriot community.
It said it would continue to take steps, together with the Turkish Cypriot authorities, to safeguard the security of Turkish Cypriots.
Source: CNA
