“No Inch Given”: Adonis Defends Greece’s Sovereign Rights Against Turkish Claims

In the wake of Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan’s recent statements on the issue of Greece’s territorial waters and maritime rights, Greek Health Minister Adonis Georgiadis responded with a clear and uncompromising message: “Greece will not give away an inch of its sovereignty.”

Speaking on the government’s strategic foreign policy approach, Georgiadis underscored that “calm waters” are not a sign of weakness but a demonstration of strength — backed by modernized Armed Forces and reinforced international alliances.

“The Greek people want peace, not escalation. And peace is achieved through power, not concessions,”Georgiadis stated.

A Strategic Shield, Not Silence

The minister explained that, contrary to opposition rhetoric, Greece’s approach to the Eastern Mediterranean and the Aegean is firm, calculated, and strategic.

“No government in modern Greek history — from Andreas Papandreou to Kyriakos Mitsotakis — has renounced the right to extend territorial waters to 12 nautical miles,” he noted.

“Greece acts with strategic calculation, not impulsive moves. That’s why calm waters benefit us.”

Georgiadis also reminded that Greece’s defense capabilities have been significantly upgraded, alliances have multiplied, and diplomatic leverage is at its highest point in decades.

Greece’s Strength Anchored in Alliances

The Greek minister highlighted the strong strategic partnerships Greece has built, especially with the United States, the European Union, Israel, and Egypt.

• “Our Armed Forces are stronger than ever,” he said.
• “The Turkey-Libya memorandum has been neutralized in practice.”
• “Migrant flows from Turkey are almost zero.”
• “Our alliance with Israel is proving to be a strategic advantage for Greece and for stability in the region.”

According to Georgiadis, these facts show that Ankara’s aggressive rhetoric does not alter the strategic balance of power in the Aegean.

A Response to Fidan’s Provocations

Hakan Fidan’s recent comments reviving maritime boundary disputes have reignited political debate in Greece. But Georgiadis made clear that Athens’ position is unchanged:“We have not given away, and we will not give away, any sovereign rights. Those who speak of ‘calm waters’ as weakness misunderstand both strategy and strength.”

His remarks reflect a wider government doctrine: deter effectively, avoid escalation, and project national confidence.

Political Message to Domestic Critics

Georgiadis also aimed his words at those on the right of the political spectrum who have criticized the government’s stance as “too soft.”“Nobody wants turbulence in the Aegean. What we want is to protect our national interests in a way that strengthens Greece’s hand. Strength comes from preparation and alliances, not shouting matches,” he said.

A Clear Line of Defense

At a moment when the Eastern Mediterranean once again captures global attention, Adonis Georgiadis stands in full alignment with the government’s foreign policy — projecting confidence, stability, and deterrence.“No inch given. Calm waters serve Greece. Our alliances are strong. Our sovereignty is non-negotiable.”

Analysis:Adonis Georgiadis’s remarks underscore a carefully crafted Greek strategy: avoid provocations, maintain deterrence, and strengthen diplomatic weight. As Ankara tests narratives, Athens signals readiness — not with words, but with power and alliances.

Source: pagenews.gr