GAZIMAGUSA
Turkish Deputy Prime Minister Besir Atalay has said that Turkish Petroleum Cooperation's (TPAO) exploration works were continuing in Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC).
Recalling him claims that TPAO had stopped seeking petroleum in TRNC, Alatay rejected the claims.
"Everything has been proceeding ideally. Our Energy and Natural Resources Ministry monitoring the works very closely. There is no pause and our works keep going," Atalay told reporters in Gazimagusa on the occasion of attending a university's academic term opening ceremony.
Atalay meets Turkish Cypriot prime minister
Atalay met with Turkish Cypriot Premier Irsen Kucuk in Lefkosa.
Speaking at the meeting, Atalay said political and economic stability were key to development, adding that Turkey would continue to support the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) in maintaining a determined and stable political environment.
Atalay said Turkish Cypriot economy had achieved a good performance in 2012 with a rising per capita income and increased revenues from tourism.
Turkish Cypriot Prime Minister Irsen Kucuk, on his part, said that relations with Turkey was of vital importance for the TRNC, adding that Turkey had made contributions both financially and in building a new infrastructure network.
The Turkish deputy premier also met separately with Turkish Cypriot Parliament Speaker Hasan Bozer as part of his talks.
In the meeting Atalay said that Turkey conveyed its experiences to the TRNC in developing and implementing a nw two-year economic program following a previous three-year program which he said produced positive results.
