STATEMENT BY THE DEPUTY PRIME MINISTRY AND THE MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS

The Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) welcomes the commencement of works for natural gas exploration in Eastern Mediterranean by the Turkish Petroleum Corporation (TPAO) as well as the prospect of extracting natural gas in the event of obtaining a positive result. This work confirms that both the TRNC and the Republic of Turkey are resolute to safeguard their legitimate rights and interests in the Eastern Mediterranean, as has been previously mentioned in various statements issued by both countries.

As is known, the Deputy Prime Minister and the Minister of Foreign Affairs Assoc. Prof. Dr. Turgay Avcı, during his visit to Turkey in February 2007, had contacts regarding the exploration/extraction of hydrocarbon in the Eastern Mediterranean and drew attention to the gravity of the issue and emphasizing the determination of our country and the Republic of Turkey to safeguard our rights. We hope that this initiative, which is a proof of the fact that the Turkish side shall not keep silent in the face of attempts aimed at violating or eroding its rights and interests in the Eastern Mediterranean, shall convey the necessary message to all the relevant parties, the Greek Cypriot side in particular.

August 2007, Lefkoşa.