 |
answer text |
<p>We are following developments in the Eastern Mediterranean with concern. We would
like to see the situation deescalated. I raised the issue of Turkey's planned drilling
in waters around Cyprus with the Turkish Ambassador in London and the British Ambassador
to Ankara has engaged with the Turkish Ministry of Foreign Affairs to urge de-escalation.
We have been clear with Turkey both publicly and privately that we oppose their plans
to drill. We also continue to recognise the sovereign right of the Republic of Cyprus
to exploit the oil and gas in its internationally agreed Exclusive Economic Zone.</p><p>We
believe it is critical for stability in the Mediterranean and for the integrity of
the rules-based international system that disputes such as this are resolved, not
through force, militarisation or coercion, but through dialogue and in accordance
with international law. We will continue to work with the Republic of Cyprus and the
wider region to that end. We continue to attach the utmost importance to securing
a long-term settlement to the division of Cyprus and urge all parties to look for
ways by which the development of the island's resources can support the search for
a settlement for the benefit of all Cypriots.</p>
|
|
