"The press statement regarding the developments in the Eastern Mediterranean, following the meeting in Cairo on 8 January 2020 with the participation of the Foreign Ministers of Greece, France, Greek Cypriot Administration (GCA) and Egypt as well as Italy, is based entirely on factitious arguments and false premises," the ministry said and adding the two memoranda of understanding that Turkey signed with the legitimate and the internationally recognized government of Libya, are legitimate and fully compatible with international law.

Pointing out that these memoranda of understanding constitute a response to those aiming to disregard the presence of Turkey and Turkish Cypriots in the Eastern Mediterranean, it said: "The press statement dated 8 January indeed reveals once again that the steps taken by Turkey in the Eastern Mediterranean are rightful and appropriate."

Stressing that Turkey, with the longest coastline in the Mediterranean has the right to speak on any project concerning the region, it went on: "In order to transform the Eastern Mediterranean into an area of cooperation rather than of conflict, we would like to take this opportunity to express yet again our readiness for cooperation with all parties, with the exception of GCA."

The Foreign Ministers of Greece, Greek Cyprus, France and Egypt, who met in Cairo on January 8, condemned the maritime agreement signed between Turkey and Libya claiming it undermines regional stability.

ILKHA