The Turkish Cypriots, as co-owners of the Island of Cyprus, also have equal rights over the maritime areas around the Island. The Greek Cypriot Administration of Southern Cyprus, which represents only the Greek Cypriot people, has no authority to take any unilateral steps around the Island on behalf of the Turkish Cypriots.

In this regard, we support the views expressed in the statement issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC), concerning the unauthorized activities conducted by the Norwegian flagged vessel “Ramform Hyperion” in the continental shelf to the south of the Island, over which the Turkish Cypriots have equal rights, and we fully support the justified reaction of the TRNC authorities.

Taking this opportunity, we call on third parties to encourage dialogue and cooperation, instead of supporting the intransigent attitude of the Greek Cypriot Administration.