Turkey is withdrawing from disputed Mediterranean zone, Greece says

News About Turkey - NAT
1 Min Read

The research vessel is anchored off the southeast Turkish port of Antalya ( AP )

Turkey has reduced the number of navy vessels in an area of the eastern Mediterranean where it disputes Greek jurisdiction over oil and gas drilling rights, Greek authorities have said.

Tensions in the long-standing dispute flared last week between the two Nato allies when Turkey announced it planned to send a research vessel south of the Greek islands of Rhodes, Karpathos, and Kastellorizo.

The initiative was publicly criticised by the United StatesFrance, and other European countries, and the Turkish research vessel, the Oruc Reis, has remained anchored off the southeast Turkish port of Antalya.

Greek government spokesperson Stelios Petsas said on Monday that Turkey was withdrawing navy vessels from the area, adding that Athens remained ready to enter negotiations with Turkey “within the framework of international law and good neighbourly relations”.

Turkey accuses Greece of trying to exclude it from fair mineral exploitation in the eastern Mediterranean, arguing that Greek islands should not be included calculating exclusive economic zones.

Athens counters that Turkey’s position is a violation of international law.

Turkey says the research mission plan will remain in effect through 2 August.

AP

Share This Article
Founded by a small group of Turkish/Kurdish scholars who have been subjected to persecution at the hands of the Erdogan dictatorship, News About Turkey (NAT) has emerged as a platform that is both exceptional and invaluable. Our objective is to provide you with a comprehensive and sophisticated understanding of the events and developments in Turkey (Türkiye), a country with profound historical and geopolitical importance, a vibrant culture, and a strategic location. Our founders, who have been purged by the Erdogan regime after the so-called coup attempt, are aware of the significance of journalism that is both free and independent. Because of this understanding, we are committed to providing reporting and analysis that is both objective and comprehensive. To give you the most thorough coverage of Turkey, we go further than just scratching the surface. Keep in touch with us so that you can have a better understanding of Turkey's developing story as well as vital and comprehensive news items. Whether you are a resident of Turkey, a member of the Turkish/Kurdish diaspora, or simply someone who has a strong interest in this vital country, we are the most reliable source for news that not only informs but also inspires and engages you.
Leave a comment