Fidan on Western Thrace & Cyprus: “Protecting Rights and a New Era in Turkey-EU Relations”

Turkish FM reiterates stance on “Turkish minority,” signals expectations for Greece-Turkey ties and Cyprus.

Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan has reiterated Turkey’s provocative stance regarding the “Turkish minority in Western Thrace”, claiming Ankara continues to monitor and act against what it calls “unjust practices” affecting the rights of Muslim communities in Greece. At the same time, Fidan emphasized Turkey’s willingness to maintain and deepen relations with Greece “on the basis of good neighborliness,” referring to the upcoming 6th meeting of the High-Level Cooperation Council in Ankara.

On the Cyprus issue, Fidan repeated Ankara’s policy line advocating for “coexistence of two states on the island”, highlighting Turkey’s commitment to the prosperity of Turkish Cypriots within the framework of its “historical, legal, and humanitarian responsibilities.”

Turkey also appears to be actively seeking a new era in relations with the European Union, focusing on mutual trust, updating the customs union, and expanding dialogue on visas. Meanwhile, ties with the U.S. are being strengthened, particularly in energy and defense, while Ankara emphasizes its strategic role in NATO and Eastern Mediterranean stability.

Fidan’s statements reveal Turkey’s dual-track strategy: on one hand, projecting strong protection of “Turkish minorities” serves as a tool for domestic and regional influence; on the other, the emphasis on cooperation with Greece, the EU, and the U.S. suggests a diplomatic and economic engagement approach. The Cyprus issue remains a high-tension point, as Turkey’s two-state stance directly challenges the internationally-backed solution promoted by Athens and global institutions. Simultaneously, Ankara highlights its geopolitical importance and contributions to transatlantic security, reinforcing its strategic leverage vis-à-vis the EU and NATO.

Source: pagenews.gr