Border Issues in the Eastern Mediterranean: An assessment on Turkey (original) (raw)

This study is prepared to analyze the approaches and policies of Turkey and riparian countries toward the issue of sharing resources in the Eastern Mediterranean and to offer suggestions for solving this issue. Drafted in consideration of international rules of law, this study elaborates on the interrelations between Turkey and its riparian countries and seeks an answer for the question "What are the factors that render the Eastern Mediterranean important?" In the study, the factors that render the Eastern Mediterranean region important are scrutinized within the scope of historical process. Focusing on energy assets and the issue of sharing resources in the Eastern Mediterranean, the study further explores terms of international maritime law and analyzes cooperation and relations among states. The steps to be taken by Turkey to solve problems in the region as well as challenges it will face are clearly expressed. In this regard, the study delves into the issue of border disputes in consideration of energy reserves found in the Eastern Mediterranean, which sets the boundaries of this study. Consequently, suggested solutions for problems of resource distribution and sharing in the region are substantially explored in the study.