The Party of the European Left denounces the threats launched by Turkey against the Republic of Cyprus in relation to the start of the exploration drilling for natural gas and hydrocarbons by the Republic of Cyprus in its Exclusive Economic Area. The sovereign rights of each state in accordance to International Law and in particular of the UNCLOS has to be fully respected by all states.

The EL considers it unacceptable that Turkey, a candidate for accession to the European Union, should not recognize the Republic of Cyprus, an EU member state, and its sovereign rights deriving from International Law and international conventions. Turkey’s threats escalate tensions further in the already troubled region of the Eastern Mediterranean and do not contribute to the need for peace and stability for all the peoples of the area.
Some years would still be needed until the benefits from any possible natural gas and hydrocarbons would be ripped and indeed this perspective could be a positive factor in
the efforts to reach a solution. Hence there is ample time for the solution of the Cyprus problem to be reached before the time of exploitation, and the benefits to be shared by both Greek Cypriots and Turkish Cypriots as well as contribute positively to the whole region of the Eastern Mediterranean.

The EL expresses its full support to President Christofias, who is defending the sovereign rights of the Republic of Cyprus and is exerting tireless efforts to achieve a just solution to the Cyprus problem. His government is trying to overcome the effects of the global economic crisis with the least possible impact on the people respecting collective agreements and away from neo-liberal measures. In these conditions EL expresses its support to President Christofias and AKEL that are facing orchestrated attacks from the opposition.

At a difficult time for the people of Cyprus, the EL reiterates its solidarity and support to the struggle of the Cypriot people, Greek Cypriots and Turkish Cypriots, to achieve a solution of a bizonal bicomunal federation on the basis of the UN Resolutions, that would free Cyprus and its people of foreign occupation.

EL Executive Board
Paris, 9 October 2011

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