Türkiye issues new NAVTEX claiming continental shelf between Chios and Lesvos

A new conflict has arisen in Greek-Turkish relations, with Türkiye issuing a NAVTEX asserting that the area between the Greek islands of Chios and Lesvos falls within its continental shelf. This move was made in response to the research activities of the Greek vessel AEGAIO for cable installation between the two islands. According to Türkiye, the region belongs to its maritime jurisdiction, and any research must be coordinated through Turkish authorities.

On October 18, the Greek station in Lemnos issued a NAVTEX for research activities to install the cable, set to take place from October 20-25. However, Turkish authorities responded by issuing their own NAVTEX, claiming part of the research area lies within Türkiye’s continental shelf in the Aegean Sea, a matter yet to be defined by the coastal states involved.

This move mirrors past actions, such as in the case of Kasos, where Türkiye used research operations in international waters to raise claims over the continental shelf and assert control over maritime activities. This development comes just days before a meeting between Greek and Turkish officials and highlights Türkiye’s ongoing efforts to expand its claims in the Aegean.

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