Cyprus, Lebanon 'in talks on oil, gas'

Cypriot minister said nations discussing cooperation in offshore exploration

Cyprus and Lebanon are in talks to address Lebanese concerns which are blocking the ratification of a 2007 agreement freeing their offshore territories, Erato Kozakou-Markoulli, the Cypriot foreign minister said on Friday.

“We believe that all issues causing concern to Lebanon will be discussed,” she said.

The two countries would “also see how we can cooperate in other important areas such as the exploration and exploitation of hydrocarbons in our exclusive offshore territories.”

She spoke to reporters in Nicosia today after a meeting with her Lebanese counterpart, Adnan Mansour. “We are committed to intensify our work in order to extend our cooperation in every area."

http://www.ekathimerini.com/4dcgi/_w_articles_wsite2_1_25/11/2011_416466