The Turkish research vessel Barbaros and the two support vessels which entered the Cypriot Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) three days ago have not departed yet. Instead they are in EEZ monitoring the research works concerning the exploitation of sea energy.

The Turkish research vessel is clearly used in order to create tension and declare Turkish claims on Cypriot EEZ. It is doubtful if Turkey has proceeded to actual researches, since this would be rather pointless as the specific area has been already checked intensively by other research vessels on behalf of the Republic of Cyprus.

It is estimated that Turkey wants to include the gas issue in the negotiations regarding the Cyprus issue gas wishing to secure a share for the Turkish Cypriots and commitments for Turkey’s participation in energy actions in the region.

The Turkish provocations in the EEZ may have created anxiety in Cyprus, but also disappointment because of the lack of Greek support. Citizens and political parties were expected Greece would have sent a warship or aircrafts in order to declare its presence and send the message that Cyprus is not alone.

The absence of Greek support in such a critical situation has created a negative climate which Prime Minister Antonis Samaras will have to face during his visit to Nicosia on November 7.