EU chaos: Union forced to intervene as Turkey issues warning to Cyprus over energy clash

The two have been at odds after the Greek Cypriot Government issued arrest warrants for one of two Turkish ships drilling for gas in the region. In the wake of the clash between the two, Turkish Cypriot leader Mustafa Akinci has issued a proposal for both sides of the island to cooperate in exploration and exploitation of gas could contribute to stability and peace in the eastern Mediterranean. If the Greek Government of the island does not accept the proposal, however, Turkey has insisted that it will continue to drill off the coast of the country said Mevlut Cavusoglu, Turkey’s Foreign Minister.

Mr Cavusoglu said: “Any attempt in the region at alliances and cooperation in the region that alienate Turkey are destined for failure.”

Such is the heightened relations that Turkey has even advised energy companies not to deal with Cyprus’ Greek Government.

In response, the EU is contemplating curbing contacts and funds for Turkey to hit back at Ankara.

Mr Cavusoglu also praised Turkish Cypriot leader, Mustafa Akinci’s proposal over an energy alliance calling it “timely” and “well-advised.”

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Such is the heightened relations that Turkey has even advised energy companies not to deal with Cyprus’ Greek Government.

In response, the EU is contemplating curbing contacts and funds for Turkey to hit back at Ankara.

Mr Cavusoglu also praised Turkish Cypriot leader, Mustafa Akinci’s proposal over an energy alliance calling it “timely” and “well-advised.”

Turkey, which has no diplomatic relations with Cyprus, is the only country which recognises the breakaway state in the north of the island.

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Moreover, Turkey does not regard the waters where its two ships, the Yavuz and Fatih.

Cyprus, however, says Turkey’s drilling operations are contrary to international law and that decisions on hydrocarbons are its sovereign right.

In response to the EU’s possible course of action over the dispute, Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan has criticised the bloc.

The President accused the EU of not supporting the right of Turkish people in the north of Cyprus he said in an interview Haberturk.

He added: “In the face of all of these developments, we can’t view positively those who speak, make noise here.

“Now the EU comes forward and says what? It will impose sanctions. Do whatever your sanction is.

“Sorry, you have not defended the rights of Turks in northern Cyprus.”

source: express.co.uk