ANKARA - The number of countries that are interested in the activities of the Organization of the Black sea Economic Cooperation (BSEC) increase as the interest in the region ascends in the international arena.
The human resources in Black Sea as well as its strategic position on the energy and transportation corridors is the reason for international interest in Black Sea, say the diplomatic sources.
Recently European Commission applied for receiving an observer status in BSEC.
-BSEC-EU RELATIONS-
Diplomatic sources state that EU interest in BSEC is gaining pace after Bulgaria and Romania became EU members. However, a cooperation declaration that was expected to be released in the 15th year summit of BSEC was postponed due to time concerns, especially on the side of EU.
In addition to European Commission, Britain, Kazakhstan, Iran, Hungary, and Greek Cypriot administration applied for an observatory status at the BSEC.
Turkey opposes to Greek Cypriot administration's application because it does not recognize the administration. On the other hand, Greece vetoes the other applications. However, sources do not expect Greece to hold this position for a long time.
-TURKEY'S TERM PRESIDENCY-
Turkey, which has taken over BSEC's term presidency from Serbia for a period of 6 months as of May 1st,2007, has decided to give priority to several issues such as environment, transportation, energy, telecommunication and suppression of crime during its presidency.
According to diplomatic sources, concrete steps regarding the implementation of the "Black Sea Ring Highway" project, will be taken during this term.
Moreover, activities concerning the "Sea Highways" will also be initiated within this period, sources say. Sea highway is a concept developed by BSEC in order to benefit from sea transportation to a greater extent. A document of understanding was signed during the meeting in Belgrade in order develop Sea Highways in the BSEC region.
-JOINTLY EXPLORING HYDROCARBON RESOURCES-
Turkey made a suggestion to BSEC for jointly carrying out the exploration of hydrocarbon resources and form an "ad hoc working group" in this respect. This suggestion was accepted by the member countries.
First meeting of this working group will be held under Turkey's presidency to the organization.
-BSEC'S HISTORY-
On June 25th, 1992, the heads of state and governments of 11 countries signed the Summit Declaration and the Bosphorus Statement in Istanbul, giving birth to BSEC.
It came into existence as a unique and promising model of multilateral political and economic initiative aimed at fostering interaction and harmony among the Member States, as well as to ensure peace, stability and prosperity encouraging friendly and good-neighbourly relations in the Black Sea region.
Turkey hosts the Permanent International Secretariat of the organization.