ANKARA — Turkey has threatened to sanction companies that
participate in energy exploration or development for the Republic of
Cyprus.
Officials said the government of Turkish Prime Minister Recep Erdogan
would ban any foreign company that helps the offshore energy
exploration
project of the Republic of Cyprus.
Turkey has warned that it was prepared to use its military to stop
Greek
Cypriot or Israeli projects that encroach on waters claimed by Ankara.
On May 14, two Turkish Air Force F-16 multi-role fighters confronted
an Israeli
aircraft patrolling the Cypriot exploration blocks.
At least 29 companies have submitted bids
for the second round of licensing in the eastern Mediterranean.
