Forbes: Turkish Cyprus Halts Offshore Exploration For Peace Talks

Four decades after the island nation of Cyprus was split in two, the possibility of reunification became a possibility after peace talks began last year. However, in October of last year, Cypriot leaders called them off after Turkish vessels began offshore exploration efforts in nearby waters.

Over the last several years, the Republic of Cyprus has pursued offshore natural gas efforts following the discovery of substantial reserves in the Eastern Mediterranean. While a number of countries have laid claim to parts of the offshore reserves, including Lebanon and Israel, Cyprus has seen the energy potential as a viable path forward to growth and economic stability.

However, their claim has been challenged on many occasions by Turkey, who’ve often made the argument that any regional efforts should include and benefit the island’s Turkish north.

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