UK Supports Republic of Cyprus' Sole EEZ Rights

The British Minister met with Cypriot President Nicos Anastasiades, where the two leaders discussed their strong bilateral ties. When queried over Turkey's illegal activity in the EEZ, Lidington commented, "we talked about a number of issues, [that have] to do with hopes for a resumption of the settlement talks," according to Parikiaki.

The British leader further added, "we recognise the EEZ of the Republic of Cyprus and the right of the Republic of Cyprus – and only of the Republic of Cyprus – to develop whatever hydrocarbons there might be in those waters...A settlement would enable everybody in Cyprus to benefit from the greater prosperity that would flow from the exploitation of hydrocarbon resources and the potential to develop Cyprus as an energy hub for the entire Eastern Mediterranean region."

Lidington claimed that the UK, "has always been to hope for a successful outcome to the settlement talks" but "it's not our job to lay down how that should be achieved." Anastasiades and his colleague also discussed their bilateral ties, technical aid granted by the UK to Cyprus, and their collaborative fight against global terrorism.

(Source: Parikiaki)