The Joint Declaration, signed on May 2, 2025, by Greek Foreign Minister Giorgos Gerapetritis and Bulgarian Foreign Minister Georg Georgiev, marks a new chapter in bilateral cooperation.
“At a time when a significant effort is being made by the UN Secretary General on the Cyprus problem, with the resumption of the informal talks and the appointment of Maria Angela Holguin Cuellar as Personal Envoy, any action to create a fait accompli in the occupied territories is an extremely negative development,” Greek diplomatic sources noted on Sunday, swiftly responding to Erdogan’s statements.
Declaring Turkey and Turkish Cypriots the “rightful owners” of the region, Erdogan vowed their presence would persist “for centuries.” He framed the event as a step toward a shared future of “one nation, two states,” emphasizing unity and resolve.
Both the Bulgarian and Greek sides of the crossing are fully prepared for operation, with infrastructure and facilities already in place.
“We have an obligation to preserve the identity and character of our unique historic center,” said Athens Mayor Haris Doukas. “Cracking down on illegal activities and the reckless commercialization of our historic sites is a top priority, so that we can pass on a rich legacy to the younger generations.”
Speaking to Anadolu Agency at an energy summit in Bursa, Ayyıldız announced that offshore operations near the KKTC and Libya will commence soon, aligning with Turkey’s strategy to reduce reliance on imported energy.
