The Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) Ministry of Foreign Affairs has expressed its strong reaction to the latest statement made by the EU Commission’s spokesperson on the fenced-off area of Maraş.

In a written statement, the ministry said, “An EU Comission spokesperson who responded to a question regarding the developments in the fenced-off area of Maraş has stated that the opening of a beach in the fenced off town of Maraş ‘is a step in the wrong direction’. This statement is yet another example of the Greek Cypriot administration’s policy of deceiving public opinion through the European Union.”

The ministry reminded its earlier statement that no decision had been taken to open up a new beach in the area.

“What is being done is clearing up the beach, which is already in use, making it safe and improving facilities for visitors. It is disappointing to see that the EU, through the misinformation provided by the Greek Cypriot side is politicizing the issue, which is only about improving the beach for the public,” the statement added.

The ministy reminded that the decisions that are being taken by the TRNC on Maraş are in line with international law and that the TRNC does not require the approval of the Greek Cypriot administration or the European Union in the fenced-off area which is located within its terrority” the TRNC Foreign Ministry stressed.

“On the other hand, the EU’s silence over the Greek Cyprioıt side’s unilateral hydrocarbon activities which are exacerbating tensions in the Eastern Mediterranean at the expense of the rights of the Turkish Cypriot people, are unacceptable” the statement concluded.