Simon Coveney (Cork South Central, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Deputy for raising the issue because it is a developing situation which needs more attention than it is getting, quite frankly, in many capitals across Europe. In relation to the escalating tensions in the eastern Mediterranean, Ireland has consistently called on Turkey to show restraint and respect for the sovereign rights of Cyprus and Greece, and to refrain from actions in the eastern Mediterranean that infringe on international law and risk the stability and security of the region. We continue to stand in full solidarity with Greece and Cyprus on these issues. The only way in which disputes concerning maritime boundaries in the Aegean Sea and the wider eastern Mediterranean will be resolved is through political dialogue. I commend the German Government, in particular, on its efforts to mediate in this dispute. France has been very involved as well. I discussed this issue last week with my German counterpart. I have also been in contact directly with my Turkish counterpart and with a number of EU partners, in particular, my Cypriot counterpart who is a good friend of mine.

The return of the Turkish research vessel to port from Greek waters and the announcement that exploratory talks between Greece and Turkey will resume are a welcome first step, although we regret that Turkish research vessel remains in Cypriot waters. That is a continued source of concern. I would welcome Turkey taking further steps to de-escalate the situation with Cyprus as a way of demonstrating its commitment to stability and peace in the region. Last week the European Council discussed the EU’s relationship with Turkey and the situation in the eastern Mediterranean. The announcement of exploratory talks between Greece and Turkey has opened up the possibility of resolving the current crisis through dialogue and, as such, it was decided to revisit the issue in December in order to allow breathing space for these negotiations. We would like to see a more stable and constructive relationship developed with Turkey, particularly given the importance of the relationship to issues such as migration and economic activity. This would benefit both the EU and Turkey. It is our hope that when this issue is revisited in December we can take steps to build a more constructive relationship than we have seen in recent months and years. However, this will only be possible if the provocations and pressures stop. If not, then we stand ready to use instruments and options that are available to the EU.

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