Violation by Turkey of international law of the sea and the sovereign rights of an EU Member State

26.2.2013

Question for written answer P-002205-13
to the Commission
Rule 117
Eleni Theocharous (PPE)

The Turkish government, in cooperation with the Turkish Petroleum Company and another foreign company, is planning to carry out illegal exploration work to the west of Cyprus in Cyprus’s EEZ, in violation of international law of the sea which forms an integral part of the Community acquis. If Turkey wishes to become a full EU Member State, it is obliged to sign, respect and implement the Community acquis.

Under these circumstances — a candidate for European Union accession, i.e. Turkey is violating international law of the sea and the sovereign rights of a Member State — how is it possible to call upon the Republic of Cyprus to lift its veto on the opening of Chapter 15 (Energy)?

Will the Commission adopt a position on this matter and condemn these provocative actions by Turkey that are contrary to the Community acquis and international law of the sea?

OJ C 372 E, 19/12/2013