The Turkish Ministry of Defence has confirmed that the seismic research vessel Oruç Reis will continue its planned energy exploration mission in the Eastern Mediterranean despite opposition from Greece and other neighbouring countries.
The ministry posted on Twitter earlier this week that Oruç Reis will resume its hydrocarbon surveys in the waters of the Turkish continental shelf in the Eastern Mediterranean with a protective screen of Turkish Navy frigates and corvettes ready to prevent any incidents of "lawlessness and bullying."
The exploration, which began on August 10, is now expected to last through September 25.
The surveys are being performed off the coast of the Greek islands of Kastellorizo and Rhodes in waters that both Ankara and Athens claim as part of their respective exclusive economic zones (EEZs). Hellenic Navy surface ships have therefore been shadowing Oruç Reis and its escorts ever since the Turkish vessels began operating in the disputed waters in early August.
The extended exploration is expected to conclude at around the same time that the European Council will hold an emergency meeting to discuss the ongoing tensions.
