Cyprus seeks US backing in crisis with Turkey

In a phone conversation with US National Security Adviser John Bolton on Friday, Cyprus Foreign Minister Nikos Christodoulides called for Washington's support as Nicosia seeks to safeguard its sovereign rights in its exclusive economic zone (EEZ) in light of ongoing Turkish violations off its western coast.

Bolton reportedly reaffirmed the stance adopted by the US State Department from the outset of the crisis, stressing the need for an immediate cessation of activities within the island's EEZ and the avoidance of acts that will escalate tensions.

Christodoulides' conversation with Bolton was part of a wider diplomatic initiative by the minister in a period of mounting concern on the island over Turkey's next move.

To this end, Cyprus President Nicos Anastasiades Friday briefed 10 top justices from as many European Union countries over Turkey's actions.
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