Dialogue Without Crisis
Foreign Minister Giorgos Gerapetritis emphasized that Greece seeks stability and structured dialogue with Turkey, avoiding tensions, especially in the current international context.
Although structured, the Greek-Turkish dialogue has not yet advanced enough to justify high-level summit meetings, explained the minister, justifying the postponement of both the Mitsotakis-Erdogan meeting and the Supreme Council of Greece-Turkey Cooperation, which has been repeatedly delayed.
“Is there anyone who wants turbulent waters, especially in this critical international context?” he asked, emphasizing that there is no crisis in bilateral relations.
Objectives and Outcomes of the Dialogue
Mr. Gerapetritis stressed that Greece’s foreign policy aims to strengthen the country and expand its diplomatic footprint, rather than shrink it.
The dialogue has a structured approach, with beginning, middle, end, and deliverables:
- Reduction of violations of the National Airspace, previously around 7,000 annually.
- Minimization of migrant flows from the East.
- Increase in bilateral trade.
The Prime Minister has met seven times with the Turkish President, the minister reminded, while the New York meeting cancellation was justified due to a multilateral meeting convened by Donald Trump.
The “Piri Reis” and Greek Continental Shelf
Regarding the Turkish research vessel, Gerapetritis clarified that the survey:
- Does not cover Greek continental shelf,
- Does not violate International Law.
What violates international regulations is the issuance of NAVTEX, which Greece immediately countered with its own counter-NAVTEX.
Greece-Cyprus Electricity Interconnection (GSI)
The Foreign Minister clarified that no individual project can trigger a rupture between Greece and Cyprus.
The Greek government fully supports the project without reservations, while expecting similar comprehensive support from Cyprus. Pending financial matters, such as cost-sharing, must be resolved before the cable is laid.
Response to Samaras’ Criticism
Regarding former Prime Minister Antonis Samaras’ statements, Gerapetritis emphasized that this is not a personal confrontation.
“His positions diverge not from my personal policy, but from the government’s policy.” He noted that convergence is difficult, as the approaches differ.
Strategy of Stability and Diplomatic Influence
With these statements, Greece sends a message of:
- Stability in the Aegean,
- Dialogue and cooperation with Turkey,
- Expansion of its international influence.
At the same time, the government closely monitors issues of sovereignty and security, maintaining Confidence-Building Measures (CBMs) and the positive agenda, aiming to prevent crises and tensions.
Source: pagenews.gr