Greek cypriots set to begin controversial natural gas drilling in eastern med on Oct.1

The Greek Cypriot administration will open the first borehole for natural gas in their so-called "exclusive economic zone" on Oct. 1, the day they celebrate as their independence day. The Noble Homer petroleum platform set to do the drilling is owned by Exxon Mobil. First results from the drilling are expected to be reported 60 days later. Greek Cyprus gave the franchising rights to the American Noble Energy Company, but the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) has objected to the deal, saying that it also has interests in the area.