Turkey extended the seismic survey work of its Oruc Reis ship in the Eastern Mediterranean, an area Greece said is located within its continental shelf, until November 23.
Ankara said in a naval maritime notice, Navtex, that Oruc Reis, along with two other ships, the Ataman and Cengiz Han, will continue to work in an area near the Greek island of Kastellorizo.
The move constitutes a new provocation for Greece, which rejects any dialogue with Turkey before it withdraws the ships from the region.
Oruc Reis was back in the region on October 12, after Turkey withdrew it on September 13 to make way for diplomatic efforts to resume talks on pending issues with Greece. The ship’s mission was scheduled to end on October 22.
However, efforts made both by NATO and Germany, EU’s current president, in this regard have failed.
Greece refused any approach to hold dialogue with Turkey before the latter withdraws its ships, saying their presence is a provocation that eliminates the chances of talks.
In the same context, Turkish President Erdogan announced that it was possible to reach a just solution in the East Med region if it gives up on making concessions in favor of Greece and Cyprus.
Speaking during the ruling Justice and Development Party (AK Party)'s parliamentary group meeting, Erdogan affirmed his country's readiness to do what is required to bring about peace, security, stability and prosperity in the region.
Erdogan called upon countries of the Eastern Mediterranean to resolve their differences and move together within the new political global order, which he said was formed after the emergence of the coronavirus pandemic.
The President stressed that his country will continue to activate diplomatic channels and work to strengthen its presence to achieve this goal, noting that Turkey wants to work with all friendly countries.
He called on everyone to work together in order to start a new phase of justice and respect.
