ATHENS – The foreign ministry called on Turkey on Tuesday to respect international law and not to insist on delinquent behavior. It also condemned the planned illegal drilling within the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) of the Republic of Cyprus.

“We unequivocally condemn Turkey’s planned illegal drilling inside the EEZ and the continental shelf of the Republic of Cyprus. Specifically, in plots that have been licensed through legally prescribed procedures in European energy companies,” the statement said.

“It is another provocation that ignores the calls of the European Union and the international community for respect of the international legality and of the sovereign rights of the Republic of Cyprus. It confirms once again Turkey’s destabilising role, as well as its characterisation as the ultimate violator of international law in the region,” it added.

“We remind that repetition and obsession with delinquent behavior do not produce justice, nor do they create acquis. We express our full support and absolute solidarity with the Republic of Cyprus and call on Turkey to respect international law and to refrain from actions that undermine security and stability in our common neighbourhood,” the foreign ministry concluded.