EPP Group urges prompt EU answer to Turkish actions in Cyprus

The EPP Group has discussed Turkish illegal actions in Cyprus’ Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) which constitute a flagrant violation of Cyprus' sovereign rights stemming from international and EU law.

Turkey’s illegal activities also adversely affect the EU's goal of energy security and diversification. Turkey's conduct also ignores repeated warnings by the international community to avoid actions that endanger peace and security in the Eastern Mediterranean.

In this context, and in accordance with the decisions of yesterday’s General Affairs Council, the EPP Group expresses serious concerns over Turkey’s illegal drilling activities in the Eastern Mediterranean and deplores that Turkey has not yet responded to the EU’s repeated calls to cease such illegal activities.

The EPP Group reiterates its full support and solidarity for the Republic of Cyprus and calls on Turkey to show restraint and respect the sovereign rights of the Republic of Cyprus and refrain from any such illegal actions. Turkish actions in Cyprus’ EEZ will have a serious immediate negative impact across a range of EU-Turkey relations.

The EPP Group invites the EU Institutions and Member States to respond appropriately by imposing legal, political, economic and diplomatic restrictive measures (sanctions) against Turkey.