Cyprus’ Agriculture, Rural Development and Environment Minister, Nicos Kouyialis, told CNA English that a vessel collecting data on sea mammals will continue its research after having been illegally harassed by a Turkish frigate on Thursday.
Kouyialis stated that the vessel was conducting research for the Ministry.
“[It was] collecting information for the presence of whales and dolphins in the area, when it was approached by a Turkish frigate and forced to change its course,” outlined Kouyialis.
Cyprus’ Foreign Affairs Ministry “is handling the matter,” added Kouyialis.
The Minister explained that the research is being conducted by the Fisheries and Marine Research Department in the island’s maritime area.
As an EU member state, Cyprus is under obligation to collect information pertaining to the sea which is relevant to Cyprus and the EU, added Kouyialis.
Cyprus has been divided since 1974 when Turkey invaded and illegally occupied its northern third. UN-led talks resumed in May 2015 aiming to reunify the island under a federal roof.
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