Turkey’s seismic research vessel Barbaros plans to conduct gas exploration within Cyprus’ exclusive economic zone (EEZ).
A NAVTEX issued by Turkey on Tuesday states the Barbaros sailed from the port of Tasucu on Wednesday and is headed towards Cyprus’ EEZ where it will conduct seismic research inside Blocks 2, 3 and 13. The area being explored by Turkey are in the sea area south and southeast of Famagusta.
The NAVTEX, which is the international maritime safety advisory system, will be valid until 20 September.
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Over the past few weeks, Turkey has been active on all fronts in the Eastern Mediterranean. Turkey had suspended its efforts for oil and gas exploration around the Aegean islands of Rhodes, Karpathos and Kastellorizo after the United States, France and other European countries had criticised its activities.
Turkey has disputed Greek and Cyprus EEZ with its own claims over drilling for hydrocarbons in the eastern Mediterranean.