FILE PHOTO: The Russian Navy's frigate Admiral Grigorovich sails in the Bosphorus on its way to the Mediterranean Sea, in Istanbul, Turkey, November 4, 2016. REUTERS/Murad Sezer/File PhotoNICOSIA - 11 February 2018: Cyprus said on Sunday the Turkish military was obstructing a drill rig contracted by Italy's Eni from approaching an area to explore for natural gas, highlighting tensions over offshore resources in the east Mediterranean.The Saipem 12000 drill ship had been heading from a location south-southwest of Cyprus towards an area southeast of the island when it was stopped by Turkish warships on Friday, Cyprus said.There was no immediate comment from Turkey.Cypriot president Nicos Anastasiades said Cyprus was taking the "necessary" steps over the matter, but seemed keen to play down any escalation. Greek Cypriots say it is their sovereign right.Greek Cypriots run Cyprus's internationally recognised government. It has no diplomatic relations with Turkey.In addition to Cyprus and Turkey, Israel and Lebanon are also at odds over offshore gas exploration and marine boundaries.The Saipem 12000 had previously been commissioned to drill the Calypso, which lies less than 100 km away from the mammoth Zohr field off Egypt. "The vessel has prudently executed the orders and will remain in position pending an evolution of the situation," the spokesperson said.

Source: Egypt Today February 11, 2018 13:18 UTC