"In this context, we urgently call on Turkey to show restraint, respect the sovereign rights of Cyprus in its exclusive economic zone and refrain from any such illegal action to which the European Union will respond appropriately and in full solidarity with Cyprus," the statement noted.

Turkey said on Friday it has issued a notice to mariners blocking entry into a sea zone about 60 kilometers off the western city of Paphos, saying it has sent there its drilling ship to carry out offshore exploratory drilling, according to media reports.

Cyprus was split along ethnic lines in 1974, when Turkey intervened militarily following a coup by Athens-backed Greek Cypriots. Numerous reunification talks between the Greek Cypriots and the Turkish Cypriots have failed.

Turkey does not recognize Cyprus as a state. And the self-proclaimed Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus is only recognized by Turkey.

UN-led negotiations since 1976 have failed to produce a solution to the problem. The UN is currently engaged in consultations with the parties involved to obtain their consent for the resumption of negotiations.

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