NICOSIA — Cyprus criticized Turkey’s recent statements on international law as contradictory and provocative, following remarks by Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan during a visit to Rome.
Fidan, speaking alongside Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani, called for activities in the Eastern Mediterranean to be conducted with respect for international law. His comments were directed at Athens and Nicosia, despite longstanding tensions over maritime boundaries and energy exploration rights.
Cyprus government spokesman Konstantinos Letymbiotis responded sharply, calling Turkey’s stance “an oxymoron,” noting that Ankara has repeatedly violated international norms while claiming to uphold them.
“It is important that Turkey move beyond empty declarations and demonstrate genuine respect for the sovereignty and sovereign rights of all states in the Eastern Mediterranean,” Letymbiotis said. “For 51 years, Turkey’s actions have shown the opposite—blatant disregard for international law.”
The remarks come amid renewed friction over offshore energy interests, particularly in areas where Italy’s state-owned ENI holds stakes within Cyprus’s exclusive economic zone. Turkish naval activity and drilling operations have previously drawn condemnation from the European Union and regional governments.