Turkish survey vessel off Cape Greco

The Turkish research vessel Barbaros was on Monday morning said to be off the coast of Cape Greco [between the towns of Ayia Napa and Protaras in South Cyprus] as Ankara appeared to make good on its threat to carry out surveys in the area of [South] Cyprus’ exclusive economic zone.

The Barbaros is accompanied by supporting vessels M/V Bravo and M/V Deep Supporter, and a Turkish navy vessel, and reportedly entered the island’s EEZ around 6.30am on Monday.

Turkey has reserved in its NAVTEX (Navigational Telex), for the commencement of seismic surveys from October 20 to December 30.

ENI-KOGAS is operating its drill ship Sapiem 10000 within offshore Block 9. The Barbaros is some 17 hours away from the drillship, according to marinetraffic.com.

[Greek Cypriot] Defence Minister Christoforos Fokaides told CyBC the movements of the Turkish ships, “which he called provocative and illegal” were being closely monitored.

The [GC] National Council was meeting on Monday in an all-day session to discuss [South] Cyprus’ response.

Also on Monday, Russia’s Black Sea fleet began exercises north east of the island, which are due to end on Thursday.

[GC] President Nicos Anastasiades said on Sunday the Turkish actions proved wrong all those who believed in Turkey’s assurances about a substantial contribution to the solution of the Cyprus problem.

Source: Cyprus Mail