Hurriet: Cyprus gas dispute: Between profits and politics

When natural gas was discovered in Cyprus’ Aphrodite field in 2011, many anticipated the resource would be a catalyst for peace on the island. The reasoning behind the proposition was straightforward:

The prospect of energy prosperity would incentivize the Turkish and Greek Cypriot communities to peacefully resolve any political disputes that stand in the way of profits. Contrary to expectations, however, it has intensified rather than soothed the conflict in Cyprus. Drilling operations in the disputed waters of the Mediterranean have aggravated the disagreements over maritime borders. The question of how gas revenues would be shared between the two communities has also emerged as an impediment to peace.

Tensions in Cyprus reached a critical juncture on Oct. 7 when President Nicos Anastasiades suspended the U.N.-mediated peace talks, citing Turkey’s oil and gas exploration in disputed waters. The Republic of Cyprus (RoC) announced retaliatory measures against Turkey, including blocking Ankara’s bid for EU membership. The RoC also took the matter to the European Council, which urged Turkey to respect the RoC’s sovereignty. Ankara, however, stood firm.
MORE