France Calls on Turkey to Cease Unilateral Exploration for Oil Reserves in Eastern Mediterranean

France has urged Turkey to halt its unilateral exploration for oil reserves in the eastern Mediterranean, stated French President Emmanuel Macron during a phone call with Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis.

According to TASS, Macron emphasized that exploration activities should be stopped in the interest of the two neighboring countries as well as NATO allies.

“In order to better assess the situation on the ground and ensure respect for international law, the French President has decided to temporarily strengthen France's military presence in the eastern Mediterranean in cooperation with European partners, including Greece,” the statement from the Elysee Palace read.

Macron also deemed it necessary for France and the European Union to demonstrate solidarity with any EU member state whose sovereignty is under threat.