The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has reacted to the maps published by the European Union as part of its “Marine Spatial Planning Studies” concerning the Eastern Mediterranean region.

In a statement from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, it was noted that these maps, which align with the so-called “National Marine Spatial Plan” recently prepared by the Greek Cypriot Administration, appear to support the Greek Cypriot side’s claims that it is the sole legitimate authority of the island of Cyprus.

“The Greek Cypriot Administration, which represents only the Greek Cypriot people, does not have the authority to unilaterally take actions on matters concerning the entire island, nor does it have the right to make statements or take steps on behalf of the Turkish Cypriot people” the statement stressed.

The Foreign Ministry also criticized the European Union for lacking any authority to express opinions on matters involving the Turkish Cypriot people and falling within the jurisdiction of sovereign states, especially since it unilaterally admitted the Greek Cypriot Administration as a member.

“Despite all our constructive calls, we are witnessing once again that the European Union, by unconditionally supporting the Greek Cypriot Administration’s actions, including its disregard for the rights of the Turkish Cypriot people regarding hydrocarbon reserves in the Eastern Mediterranean, is now backing an attempt to usurp the Turkish Cypriot people’s rights around the island under the guise of a so-called ‘national marine spatial planning” the statement noted.

The ministry urged the European Union to recognize the inherent rights of the Turkish Cypriot people, including sovereign equality and equal international status, to cease ignoring their rights and interests around the island, and to adopt a stance that fosters dialogue and cooperation between the two states on the island rather than escalating tensions in the Eastern Mediterranean region.