The research/survey vessel FUGRO GRAUSS is currently conducting surveys in Cyprus Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) for the laying of a fiber optic cable, and despite Turkey's allegations of interference with the ship to change course, there has so far been no report from the company involved that the surveys are being obstructed, CNA has learned.
Government sources told CNA that this concerns a regional project of foreign interests (countries involved/interested in the project are Greece, Saudi Arabia, the United Kingdom, Germany), which also passes through the Cypriot EEZ.
Following the company's request, a notice to mariners (navtex) was issued by the competent authorities of the Republic of Cyprus, which remains in force until August 16, for geophysical survey operations for which a license was granted by the authorities of the Republic of Cyprus. The same sources said that Turkey issued an Antinavtex "reproducing known allegations regarding the legally unfounded claims in the Eastern Mediterranean".
"Despite Turkey's allegations of interference with the ship to change course, it is noted that there has so far been no complaint from the company involved for the obstruction of the surveys", government sources told CNA. They added that the competent authorities of the Republic of Cyprus are in constant communication with the ship.
Regarding reports in the Turkish daily 'Milliet' the same sources said that those reports reproduce "the well-known allegations regarding Turkey's legally unfounded claims in the Eastern Mediterranean, which not only contradict international law, but also constitute a burden on the political climate and increase tension in the region".
They stressed that in the event of an obstruction or threat against the research vessel, the Republic of Cyprus will take all appropriate actions, including complaints to the UN and demarches at EU level. They also stated that if the issue is reported, it will of course concern the countries involved.
It is noted that the Joint Rescue Coordination Center of the Republic of Cyprus issued on the 5th of August a Navtex for geophysical survey operation by S/V "FUGRO GAUSS" from 6 until the 16 of August.
It calls all vessels to keep clear distance.
(Source: CNA)
