The High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Josep Borrell, denounced once again on Friday 15 May Turkey’s illegal drilling activities in the exclusive economic zone of Cyprus and its violations of Greek airspace.
In a statement on behalf of the EU, he reiterates his call on Ankara to exercise restraint, to refrain from such actions and to respect the sovereignty and sovereign rights of Cyprus in accordance with international law.
“Concrete steps are needed to create an environment conducive to dialogue”, stresses the EU, which believes that issues related to the delimitation of the exclusive economic zones and the continental shelf should be addressed through dialogue and negotiation in good faith, in full respect of international law and in pursuit of the principle of good neighbourly relations.
The EU27 also condemn the escalation of Turkish violations of Greek national airspace in violation of international law.
Moreover, instead of “making threats and taking measures that undermine good neighbourly relations”, Turkey should respect international law, including the sovereignty of EU member states over their maritime territory and airspace, the statement warns. They added that any member of the international community must refrain from any action that undermines regional stability and security.
According to Mr Borrell, the EU and Turkey have a strong interest in improving relations through dialogue aimed at creating an environment of trust. “Refraining from any unilateral action is a fundamental element in enabling the dialogue to progress”, he said, highlighting the “serious consequences” of Turkish actions towards Cyprus and Greece “affecting the whole of EU-Turkey relations”.
Earlier in the day, Mr Borrell said the EU was continuing its diplomatic engagement with Ankara to try to steer their relations towards a cooperative and constructive approach. (Original version in French by Camille-Cerise Gessant)