Macron calls on EU to impose sanctions on Turkey

(North Press) – French President Emmanuel Macron called on the European Union, on Thursday, to impose more sanctions on Turkey for violating the maritime space of both Greece and Cyprus.

This came in statements while receiving his Cypriot counterpart, Nikos Anastasiades at the Elysée Palace, in which he warned that “the European Union will make a serious mistake if it does not respond to provocations in the eastern Mediterranean.”    

On Tuesday, Turkish Naval Forces issued a statement on conducting survey work in a marine area between Cyprus and Crete, in a move which Greece said that it is an attempt by Ankara to encroach on its continental shelf, according to Reuters.

“In this part of the Mediterranean, which is vital for our two countries … energy and security issues are fundamental,” Macron told reporters.

“The issue is related to a struggle for influence, especially on the part of Turkey and Russia, which confirm their presence more and more. In turn, the European Union did not do much,” he added.

Macron considered that “It would be a grave mistake” if the European Union left its security in the Mediterranean region in the hands of other parties, “This is not an option for Europe and this is something that France will not let it happen.”  

Earlier, in November, the EU approved some sanctions against Turkey for drilling activities off the coast of Cyprus.

Macron vowed to support Cyprus and Greece in the face of “Turkish violations” against their sovereignty.  

He considered that it is unacceptable for the maritime domain of member states of the EU to be violated and threatened, “those who do so must be punished.”

Macron indicated that the EU should impose sanctions on “those involved in the conflict in Libya.”  

“It is necessary to reach a ceasefire and start a real move towards a political solution to the Libyan conflict,” he added.

Turkey says it has the right to conduct exploration in the energy fields licensed to them by the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus, which is only recognized by Turkey.