The US State Department rejects Turkey’s threats on Cyprus oil

The European Union and now the US State Department have rejected Turkey’s threats on Cyprus oil. Turkey has threatened military action in order to prevent drilling off Cyprus southern cost. These threats were made as a response to the Republic of Cyprus decision to grant drilling rights to foreign operators. Yes, this is the same Turkey that aspires to join the EU club as it actually sees itself as an island of civilization in an ocean of backwardness and deprivation. Funny stuff. Here is what the US State Department had to say:

Question: The Republic of Cyprus has recently announced a partnership to obtain oil and gas exploration licenses in the Mediterranean Sea. What is the United States’ position on Cyprus’ request for bids? Is a US-based company among the bidders? Does the US company need to consult with the U.S. government before submitting its bid?

Answer: The Republic of Cyprus (ROC) has announced the results of bids to obtain oil and gas exploration licenses in Cyprus' exclusive economic zone. An American firm is among the bidders. The ROC is a sovereign nation with the right to request bids for oil exploration within its own economic zone. The involvement of U.S. firms in such investment is a business decision.

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Released on August 21, 2007