Anastasiades to broach EEZ during Tusk visit

European Council President Donald Tusk is meeting on Friday with Cyprus President Nicos Anastasiades to discuss Turkish activities in Cyprus’ exclusive economic zone (EEZ).

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The meeting is set to take place on Friday morning at 10:30am in Nicosia where Anastasiades is expected to broach the subject with the outgoing European Council president.

Anastasiades said on Thursday that in the coming European Council, on October 17-18, in Brussels, Nicosia will pursue what was decided during the European Council session in June, which was repeated in the same unequivocal manner during the Foreign Affairs Council on July 15.

Government Spokesman Prodromos Prodromou said in statements on Wednesday that during his meeting with Tusk, Anastasiades will raise once again the issues concerning Turkey’s illegal activities. Moreover, Prodromou recalled that Tusk has included this issue on the agenda of the next European Council meeting that will take place in Brussels on October 17 and 18.

Replying to a question, Prodromou said that Tusk will be visiting Cyprus as his term in office will soon be completed. On this occasion, he added, the issues which are on the agenda of the European Council will be discussed.

Tusk warned Turkey last Monday that its illegal drilling activities will undermine its good neighbourly relations with the EU.

In a social media post, Tusk stated that he is "in permanent contact with President of Cyprus Anastasiades. Turkey’s continued illegal drilling activities only undermine good neighbourly relations between the EU and Turkey. The EU stands united behind Cyprus."