Greek FM Gerapetritis signals optimism ahead of key meeting with Turkish top diplomat

Greek Foreign Minister Giorgos Gerapetritis has expressed optimism about the future of Turkish-Greek relations ahead of his upcoming meeting with Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan in Athens on Friday.

Speaking to Turkish daily Hurriyet, Gerapetritis emphasized that both sides have demonstrated the will to strengthen ties over the past 15 months since the decision to initiate dialogue between the two nations.

‘Strong bridges of friendship’

Highlighting the trust he has built with Fidan, Gerapetritis noted, “We can have sincere discussions and prevent crises,” while underlining the importance of building “strong bridges of friendship” between Greece and Türkiye, despite historical challenges.

On the contentious issue of Greece’s armament, Gerapetritis responded to Turkish concerns by affirming Greece’s commitment to peace and dialogue, but also pointed to the region’s instability due to ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East.

He described Greece’s defense measures as necessary for maintaining deterrence during this period of uncertainty.

Maritime disputes persist

Regarding the key issue of maritime disputes, Gerapetritis reiterated Greece’s position that the delimitation of the continental shelf and Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) remains the sole dispute between the two nations that could be resolved through international courts.

He stressed that constructive dialogue would be crucial to preventing future tensions and advancing relations.

In addition, Gerapetritis expressed optimism about Cyprus, referencing an informal meeting between the two sides and the U.N. Secretary-General as a promising step toward renewed negotiations for a unified Cyprus.

Finally, Gerapetritis reaffirmed Greece’s support for Türkiye’s EU accession perspective, noting that improved bilateral relations would also benefit Türkiye-EU relations.

He concluded by stressing the need for peace, adding: “Constant tension, hostile rhetoric, and the danger of conflict benefit no one.”