Following the licensing of Block 5 to Exxon Mobil and Qatar Petroleum earlier this week, the United States reiterated its support for Cyprus against Turkey and its gas exploration efforts.

According to the State Department, “US policy on the Exclusive Economic Zone of the Republic of Cyprus is long-term and has not changed. “The United States recognizes the right of the Republic of Cyprus to develop resources in its exclusive economic zone.”

The Cypriot government on Thursday authorized Exxon Mobil and Qatar Petroleum to explore hydrocarbons in a part of Cyprus’ exclusive economic zone (EEZ), located south and southwest of the island.

In a statement issued Thursday, Turkey claimed that Cyprus had violated its continental shelf by issuing exploration permits to the two companies and said it would not allow unauthorized drilling in areas under “its jurisdiction”.

An announcement made by the Cypriot Government states that the disputed area is part of the island’s continental shelf and Turkey has nothing to do with it.

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