U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo expresses deep concern over Turkey’s recent actions in the Eastern Mediterranean. He urges Cyprus, Greece and Turkey to resolve the crisis in the region’s natural resource exploitation through diplomatic means.
U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo arrived in Cyprus from Qatar on Saturday evening and met with Cypriot President Anastasiades.
Commenting on the current crisis of resource exploitation in Cyprus, Greece, and Turkey, Pompeo noted, “We continue to be deeply concerned about Turkey’s ongoing actions. The Republic of Cyprus has the right to exploit the natural resources found in its exclusive economic zone, including the right to exploit the hydrocarbons found.”
Pompeo stressed that “regional countries need to resolve disputes, including security, energy resources and maritime issues, peacefully and diplomatically” and that “rising military tensions help no one but enemies who want to see transatlantic unity and division. “
Pompeo also expressed concerns to President Anastasiades regarding Russian money laundering and the frequent visits of the Russian Navy to Cypriot ports. He said, “We are aware that all the Russian warships that are staying in Cypriot ports are not participating in humanitarian relief operations in Syria, and we ask Cyprus and the President of Cyprus to consider our concerns.”
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