Nicosia:Greek diplomatic sources have described a Turkish NAVTEX announcing surveys in the Eastern Mediterranean as a provocative action. These surveys are linked to the planned construction of an undersea natural gas pipeline between Turkey and the occupied areas of Cyprus.

According to Cyprus News Agency, these sources have asserted that such unilateral actions lack legal standing under international law and the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) because they proceed without the Republic of Cyprus consent. This situation is viewed as a violation of Cyprus's sovereignty and sovereign rights.

The Greek sources further stated that these actions seem to be part of an ongoing effort to reinforce the outcomes of the occupation, clearly contradicting international law. The actions, they argue, increase tensions and undermine efforts for confidence-building and regional stability.

Cyprus has been divided since 1974 following an invasion by Turkish troops, which resulted in the occupation of 37% of its territory.