Turkey’s Defence Ministry has said it is “closely monitoring” military developments in Cyprus, while reiterating its objections to the Republic of Cyprus’s defence acquisitions and military cooperation with third countries.
Responding to a question on recent developments in the Eastern Mediterranean during its weekly press briefing, the ministry said that at a time of heightened crises and tensions in the region, “military developments in Cyprus are being closely monitored” by Turkey.
Ankara raises concerns over defence cooperation
The Turkish Defence Ministry specifically referred to the Republic of Cyprus’s defence acquisitions, while using the term “Greek Cypriot Administration”, as well as Nicosia’s military cooperation with third countries.
According to the ministry, these developments could affect what it described as the “sensitive balances and climate of trust on the island”, while Ankara argued that they do not contribute to peace and stability.
Cyprus air defence system also raised
Ankara also referred to the Republic of Cyprus’s air defence system.
The Turkish Defence Ministry argued that statements suggesting the system does not pose a direct threat to Turkish Cypriots and the breakaway administration in the north cannot, in its view, justify overlooking issues that Ankara links to the security and interests of Turkish Cypriots.
It also said the Turkish Armed Forces continue to conduct training activities in international waters and international airspace in the Mediterranean.
Turkey cites role as guarantor power
Turkey reiterated that, as a guarantor power, it would continue to take “the necessary measures” in cooperation with the Turkish Cypriot authorities for what it described as the security, peace and prosperity of Turkish Cypriots.
“Our ministry closely monitors every development in the region and takes the necessary measures,” the briefing said.
Turkey issues warning over GSI
The planned electricity interconnection between Cyprus, Greece and Israel was also addressed, with Ankara reiterating its position on maritime zones in the Eastern Mediterranean.
In its Turkey GSI warning, the Defence Ministry argued that cable or pipeline-laying activities in areas it considers part of its continental shelf must be coordinated with Ankara in advance.
It added that “unauthorised activities that disregard the rights and interests of our country are not permitted”.
Ankara also cited the Turkey-Libya memorandum on maritime zones and the continental shelf boundaries it notified to the United Nations in 2020, reiterating that it would continue to protect what it considers its rights and interests in the Eastern Mediterranean.
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