Greece-Türkiye relations continue to improve, no crisis in sight: Greek FM

Greece and Türkiye are continuing to improve their bilateral relations, with no crisis currently present, according to Greek Foreign Minister George Gerapetritis.

Speaking in an interview with SKAI TV on Friday, Gerapetritis highlighted the positive atmosphere during a recent meeting with his Turkish counterpart, Hakan Fidan, in Brussels.

Constructive meeting in Brussels: Focus on bilateral relations and Cyprus issue

The meeting, which took place on the sidelines of the EU foreign ministers’ informal gathering, was described as “sincere and fruitful” by Gerapetritis.

The discussions covered key issues, including the ongoing bilateral relations between Greece and Türkiye, as well as the long-standing Cyprus issue.

Gerapetritis noted that both countries remain firm on their positions regarding major disputes, particularly the demarcation of maritime borders.

However, he emphasized the importance of continued dialogue and cooperation to foster mutual understanding.

No concessions, commitment to peace and prosperity

Responding to reports in the Greek media that Athens may have made concessions to Ankara to maintain the thaw in relations, Gerapetritis firmly rejected these claims.

He acknowledged that some factions in the press advocate for maintaining heightened tensions with Türkiye, but clarified that the government’s priority is peace and prosperity for Greece.

“There is a faction in the press that believes we should constantly be in a state of heightened tension with Türkiye,” Gerapetritis stated.

I understand that, but the mandate we have been given is to ensure peace and prosperity for our homeland for present and future generations.

Greek Foreign Minister George Gerapetritis

Positive developments

Gerapetritis highlighted the positive outcomes already emerging from improved communication between Greece and Türkiye.

He pointed to successful cooperation in managing irregular migration and preventing potential escalations as examples of the benefits of open dialogue.

“We build step by step. We make sure that the first step is to ensure calm. If the conditions are ripe, we move on to the more complex issues, which will ensure long-lasting peace,” Gerapetritis explained.

He also disclosed that preparations are underway for a planned meeting between Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakisand and President Recep Tayyip Erdogan in New York later in September.