It is understood that the Greek Cypriot Administration (GCA) have started talks with various international companies/consortiums for some blocks in its so-called exclusive economic zone with regard to the second round of tender for hydrocarbon exploration and exploitation, which was opened by ignoring the rights of the Turkish Cypriots.

As it will be recalled, our Ministry made comprehensive press statements on 15 February 2012 and on 18 May 2012 regarding this tender. We fully maintain our views expressed in these statements.

The Turkish Cypriots, like the Greek Cypriots, have equal and inherent rights over the natural resources located on the whole continental shelf of the Island. Disregarding this reality and the continuation of unilateral and provocative activities by Greek Cypriots are not acceptable both to Turkey and TRNC.

In this framework, Turkey strongly supports the statement made by the Foreign Ministry of TRNC on 2 November 2012.

The attention of the international oil companies had been repeatedly drawn as regards the adverse consequences that would be created by their activities in the disputed areas over which Turkish Cypriots also have rights. As it was stated by our Prime Minister and reiterated for several times through our Ministry’s press statements, those companies cooperating with GCA will not be allowed to take part in new energy projects in Turkey. We, therefore, repeat our call to the relevant countries and oil companies to act with common sense, not to engage in activities in these areas which are disputed especially due to the Cyprus issue and to withdraw from the said tender.