The Council of the European Union this week adopted a range of measures that are aimed against individuals or entities responsible for or are involved in unauthorised drilling activities of hyrdrocarbons in the eastern Mediterranean.

The Athenian Macedonian News Agency reports that the restrictive measures which were in response to Turkey’s unauthorised drilling activities around Cyprus included a travel ban to the EU as well as an asset freeze for individuals as well as entities. The measures also forbid EU persons and entities from making funds available to those who have been listed.

The sanctions will apply to entities or individuals responsible for drilling for the exploration or production of oil who have not been authorised by Cyprus within its territorial sea, Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) or continental shelf.

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Those supporting unauthorised activities by providing financial, technical or material support or anyone associated with them would fall under the restrictions.

The decision, which was reached on 11 November, follows on the council’s conclusions of October 14 which were then endorsed by the European Council on October 17-18 when the EU reaffirmed full solidarity with Cyprus and its sovereign rights in accordance with international law.