Greek PM concerned as Turkey extends drill ship operations off Cyprus

·

Turkey has extended a navigational telex (Navtex) reserving an area southwest of Cyprus for drilling activities until October 12.

The move was criticised on Wednesday by Greece’s Prime Minister, Kyriakos Mitsotakis, and the European Commission.

In an interview with The Economist, Mitsotakis said he was concerned by Turkey’s move to extend the operation of its Yavuz energy drill ship in disputed Mediterranean waters.

“Turkey has a choice – engage with Europe in a constructive way or continue its unilateral actions and face consequences,” the Prime Minister said.

European Commission spokesman for external affairs, Peter Stano, added that the move “will fuel further tensions and insecurity in the Eastern Mediterranean.”

“This decision comes at a moment when there is an opportunity to pursue immediate de-escalation, and resume dialogue and negotiations, which is the only path towards lasting solutions,” Mr Stano said.

He did welcome however, the withdrawal of the Turkish research vessel Oruc Reis, describing it “an important step paving the way for a meaningful dialogue between Greece and Turkey.”

The EU also calls for a similar decision as concerns Cyprus, he added.

Advertisement

Share:

KEEP UP TO DATE WITH TGH

By subscribing you accept our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy.

Advertisement

Latest News

Federation of Greek Elderly Citizens Clubs of Victoria holds Annual General Meeting

The Federation of Greek Elderly Citizen Clubs of Melbourne & Victoria held its Annual General Meeting on November 8.

Baba’s Place in Marrickville wins Good Food Guide Trailblazer Award

Baba’s Place in Marrickville, Sydney's inner west, has won the 'Bill Granger Trailblazer Award' at the Good Food Guide 2025 Awards.

Peter Yiannoudes: Remembering a visionary Cypriot Australian

The passing of Panagiotis (Peter) Yiannoudes marks the fulfilment of the Last Oracle of Apollo's high priestess.

Woman found guilty of murdering her partner’s dad Kon Kritikos

Danielle Lee Birchall has been found guilty of murder after she "savagely" beat her partner's 87-year-old father Kon Kritikos to death.

WA marks OXI Day in presence of new Consul-Designate of Greece

On Saturday, November 9, Greeks in Western Australia gathered to commemorate the Greek National Day, known as "OXI Day."

You May Also Like

‘Mateship and Filotimo’: Greeks and Australians in NSW gather to commemorate Battle of Crete 

Greeks and Australians gathered to commemorate the Anniversary of the Battle of Crete and celebrate the ties between the two countries.

Reverend Father George Liangas from Burwood features in NSW Health’s COVID campaign

Reverend Father George Liangas from St Nectarios in Burwood features in NSW Health's latest COVID-19 community languages campaign.

Remembering the victims of the Distomo massacre

Ordered by German Lieutenant Hans Zambel, Distomo was set on fire and 218 residents were executed, including 45 children and 20 infants.