Turkey’s TPAO Plans Energy Exploration Off Northern Cyprus

Turkey’s state-owned Turkish Petroleum Corporation (TPAO) is set to launch energy exploration in waters off the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (KKTC), a region recognized solely by Turkey, according to TPAO’s R&D head, Muhammet Fatih Ayyıldız.

Speaking to Anadolu Agency at an energy summit in Bursa, Ayyıldız announced that offshore operations near the KKTC and Libya will commence soon, aligning with Turkey’s strategy to reduce reliance on imported energy.

The move is expected to spark tensions with the Republic of Cyprus, an EU member, and the European Union, which have previously condemned Turkey’s exploration in disputed waters. Cyprus claims exclusive economic zone rights around the island, a claim Turkey rejects, asserting that Turkish Cypriots deserve a share of the island’s resources.

Ayyıldız highlighted that TPAO operates four drilling ships and two seismic vessels, with the Oruç Reis currently surveying off Somalia and the Barbaros Hayrettin Paşa active in the Black Sea. Turkey has also secured energy deals with Somalia and Pakistan and is pursuing exploration in Azerbaijan, Iraq, Russia, and several African nations.

Source: greek city times.com