ATHENS, October 21 (RIA Novosti) - The refusal of Turkey to recognize Cyprus and its decision to begin seismic surveys in the exclusive economic zone of the island country becomes an insurmountable obstacle to its European prospects, Greek Minister of Foreign Affairs Evangelos Venizelos stated.
"If Turkey does not understand that the Republic of Cyprus exists, it sets itself insurmountable obstacles on the European path and prospects," the minister said Monday. According to Venizelos, Turkey is undermining the dialogue on Cyprus and creates a new outbreak of the crisis.
"Unfortunately, Turkey has not heard the voice of the international community, has not heard the voice of the United Nations and the European Union, did not hear the voice of international law", the head of the Greek Foreign Ministry said.
According to his statement, Turkey should change its foreign policy.
Turkey has previously said that on October 20, it will begin the exploration of oil and gas in an area, the right for exploration for which was given to the Italian ENI and Korean Kogas. On Monday, the Turkish research vessel Barbarossa, accompanied by a warship entered the exclusive economic zone (EEZ) of Cyprus. In early October, due to Turkey's plans, President of Cyprus Nicos Anastasiades broke off talks on Cyprus settlement. Turkey's actions were condemned by many countries.
Cyprus has been divided since 1974 when Turkey invaded the north in response to a military coup on the island backed by Greece. Turkey is the only state that has recognized the breakaway Turkish Cypriot state.
