And its name is Abé Marengo. That is the name of the French research vessel that aims to conduct oceanographic and bathymetric surveys off the coast of Kasos for the purpose of laying the cable for theinterconnection between Cyprus and Crete.
According to Greek media reports, Next Geosolutions—an international provider of support services in the field of marine geosciences and offshore construction with Italian interests— has submitted a request to the Greek Ministry of Shipping.
ΣΧΕΤΙΚΑ ΑΡΘΡΑ
The request was submitted on behalf of NEXANS, the cable manufacturer, to obtain the necessary NAVTEX so that the French vessel can proceed into areas falling within Greek territorial waters.
“Conducting marine surveys for the installation of subsea direct-current cables as part of the Crete–Cyprus power interconnection (Great Sea Interconnector).” Request by Abeille Marengo
The proposed Navtex is expected to last from the end of October until the end of the year, with the possibility that the surveys may continue into 2027 remaining open.
The Oruc Reis
At the same time, Turkey is sending messages of tension through Cyprus, by dispatching a Turkish Navy patrol boat to escort the research vessel Oruc Reis during its illegal surveys off the coast of Kyrenia.
“In international waters off Kasos, Turkey considers that it has certain rights to the seabed, that is, to the continental shelf. It will not readily appear to be backing down from these rights. Therefore, it is seeking a dialogue on this issue. Moreover, let us not forget that the Oruc Reis could, if necessary—based on Turkey’s assessment—turn westward as well.” Theodoros Tsikas, Political Scientist, International Relations Expert
Theodoros Tsikas also believes that, through this development, Turkey is signaling the militarization of its claims in the eastern Mediterranean.
“It will not relinquish these rights unless we reach either a solution to the Cyprus issue or a resolution of Greek-Turkish disputes. In this sense, it wants to fly the Turkish flag in the international waters of the Eastern Mediterranean and is attempting to carry out certain activities to demonstrate its presence in the broader region.” Theodoros Tsikas, Political Scientist, International Relations Expert
Turkey’s illegal NAVTEX, which restricts the maritime area between Antalya and Kyrenia, remains in effect until October 26.
See the report by Neoklis Neokleous
