UNSG monitoring the developments in the EEZ of Cyprus closely

The UN Secretary-General is monitoring the developments in the EEZ of Cyprus closely with concern, said Farhan Haq, Deputy Spokesman for the SG.

He made the statement when invited to comment remarks by Foreign Minister of the Republic of Cyprus Nikos Chistodoulides in an interview to Cyprus State Radio, where he criticized the UN for not doing more regarding the illegal activities of Turkey in the EEZ of Cyprus.

Repeating a statement made on 6th May 2019, Haq recalled the UNSG’s position which, he said, has not changed. “Offshore hydrocarbons have the potential to benefit both communities in Cyprus,” he added.

“Offshore hydrocarbons have the potential to benefit both communities in Cyprus, Haq added.”

He noted that the Secretary-General recalls that the Greek Cypriot leader and the Turkish Cypriot leader have previously agreed in their negotiations that natural resources in a unified Cyprus would lie within the competence of the future federal government.

Haq further said that the SG is “monitoring the developments closely with concern”.

“natural resources in a unified Cyprus would lie within the competence of the future federal government.”

On January 18, Turkey sent “Yavuz” to block 8, which is licensed to ENI – Total consortium for hydrocarbon exploration and exploitation activities.

Turkey does not recognize the Republic of Cyprus, an EU member state. In light of Turkey’s continued illegal drilling activities in the eastern Mediterranean, the EU expressed solidarity with Cyprus, regarding the respect of its sovereignty and sovereign rights in accordance with international law.