Cyprus News Agency: News in English, 11-08-20

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From: The Cyprus News Agency at <http://www.cyna.org.cy>

CONTENTS

[01] MFA - RUSSIA - EEZ

[01] MFA - RUSSIA - EEZ

According to an official press release, the Russian Federation has expressed a clear position of principle, based on international law, which all members of the international community should respect and abide by.

The Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs mentions the Law of the Sea, which the Russian Federation ratified in 1997 and the Republic of Cyprus in 1998.

Furthermore, it specifically noted relevant articles of the Convention, which provide sovereign rights to states to carry out explorations, exploit, maintain and manage marine and seabed resources in their exclusive economic zone.

The Russian Ministry recalls relevant articles of the Convention which concern the delineation of the exclusive economic zone between neighbouring states, agreements which the Republic of Cyprus has signed and ratified with three neighbouring countries, namely, Lebanon, Egypt and Israel.

According to the press release, the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs also gives a clear answer to Turkey, that the Republic of Cyprus has all the sovereign rights in its exclusive economic zone, emanating from the Law of the Sea, and that any actions concerning exploration and drilling for hydrocarbons are based on international law.

It also answers to other Turkish remarks, calling on Turkey not to link the actions of the Republic of Cyprus, which are based on its sovereign rights, with the process to solve the Cyprus issue.

``We are truly grateful for this steadfast stance of Russia, which has always been and continues to be a shield and support against any threats by Turkey, a shield based on international law and UN resolutions,`` the Cypriot Ministry notes, adding that ``the response of the Russian Federation to our representations was immediate and sends a strong message to Turkey and the international community in general.``

Cyprus has signed a production-sharing contract with Houston-based Noble Energy. The company has a concession to explore for hydrocarbons in an offshore field in its Exclusive Economic Zone, southeast of Cyprus, known as Block 12.

The Eastern Mediterranean area is believed to have a massive amount of natural gas resources.

Cyprus has been divided since 1974, when Turkey invaded and occupied its northern third.

Turkey is the only state in the world, which does not recognise the Republic of Cyprus.

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