EU backs Cyprus in stand-off

摘要

THE European Union has backed Cyprus in condemning a second effort by Turkey to drill in waters off the divided nation, describing it as an 'unacceptable escalation' that breaches the sovereignty of the east Mediterranean island, writes Nassir Shirkhani. Cyprus says it will defend with all diplomatic and legal means its rights against Turkey's 'encroachment' in waters where the island claims exclusive economic rights. Turkey maintains it is protecting its rights and those of Turkish Cypriots in the breakaway north.