Turkey starts oil, gas search in Turkish Cyprus

Turkey starts oil, gas search in Turkish Cyprus

SINIRUSTU - The Associated Press
Turkey starts oil, gas search in Turkish Cyprus

AA Photo

Turkey has begun exploratory drilling for oil and gas in the northern section of ethnically divided Cyprus, heightening a dispute over the Mediterranean island's potential fuel riches.

The move counters an offshore gas search by rival Greek Cypriots in the island's internationally recognized southern half that has raised tensions with Ankara.

Turkish Energy Minister Taner Yildiz joined Turkish Cypriot leader Derviş Eroğlu to inaugurate the drilling today.