(ANSA) - Rome, February 12 - A Turkish military operation to
block a rig belonging to Italian energy giant ENI in the eastern
Mediterranean continued on Monday.
The Saipem 12000 rig was halted Saturday by a Turkish Navy
ship while on its way to Block 6 to start activity under a
license provided by Cyprus.
Ankara is opposed to the activity, saying it affects natural
resources of Turkish Cypriots on the north of the island.
The rig is currently staying put while awaiting instructions.
The Italian foreign ministry is following the case "at the
highest levels" and is in contact with the Italian embassies in
Turkey and Cyprus while pursuing "all possible diplomatic steps
to resolve the issue".
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan expressed his
opposition to ENI's operations in meetings with President Sergio
Mattarella and Premier Paolo Gentiloni during a recent visit to
Italy.
Turkish blockade of ENI rig for Cyprus drilling continues
Ankara opposed to activity