La Turquie, Chypre et la Méditerannée orientale

Abstract

This paper analyzes the strategic importance of Cyprus and its efforts to safeguard its independence against Turkish expansionism. The discovery of energy resources in the eastern Mediterranean in the exclusive zone of Cyprus, led Turkey to step up its threats towards the Republic of Cyprus. Nicosia, however, acting in accordance with international law and the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea (Montego Bay Convention, 1982), has the support of the international community. In addition there has been a rapprochement in recent years between Israel and Cyprus, which strengthens the position of Nicosia.