Issues should be resolved through dialogue, international law, Mitsotakis tells Greek press

‘Greece does not threaten anyone, and I would like to emphasize once again that we are not enemies but neighbors,’ Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis makes significant statements before his visit to Türkiye

Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis made important statements during his interview with the Greek press before his anticipated visit to Türkiye Monday, saying that the issues between both countries should be resolved through dialogue following international law and good neighborly relations.

Regarding the possibility of heightened tensions between the two countries, Mitsotakis said: “An additional proposition is that we engage in more constructive dialogue with one another rather than dwelling on negative matters concerning one another.”

Strong bond between Greeks, Turks

Mitsotakis further asserted that a notable similarity between the Greeks and Turks is their mutual acquaintance with delectable cuisine and flavors. “Familiarity with delicious meals and flavors is a strong bond between Greeks and Turks. The same applies to Türkiye,” Mitsotakis added.

Based on my experience as a food enthusiast, I can tell you that Athens has a vibrant gastronomic scene, advancing traditional Greek cuisine and exploring new possibilities. Cities are living organisms; they change and evolve. Modern Athens is a metropolis with a glorious ancient past and a dynamic city bridging the past and future.”

‘Win-win for both sides’

Prime Minister Mitsotakis emphasized the European Commission successfully negotiated a Schengen exemption for Turkish nationals visiting 10 Greek islands, known as the ‘visa on arrival.’

“It is a waiver from the rules negotiated with the Commission, clearly defined, and cannot be extended. I am thrilled with the success of this program. It’s a win-win for Turkish citizens who want to enjoy the beauty of Greek islands and the local population. This program is a model for inter-person contacts, diplomacy and mutually beneficial cooperation,” he said.

Speaking regarding the Greek-Turkish Business Council, the Greek Prime Minister stated that increasing direct investments in agriculture, infrastructure, construction and digitization is his top priority.

“I believe that establishing the Greek-Turkish Business Council as a tool to bring our business communities together will unleash the full potential of our bilateral economic relations,” he emphasized.

New, lasting chapter in relations

Mitsotakis shared his expectations for Turkish-Greek relations in 10 years, saying: “I want to see two neighboring countries cooperating in trade and economy, launching joint ventures, and working together on major challenges of our time. I hope to see stronger ties between our peoples and not be dependent on governments on both sides of the Aegean.”

“In our relationship, I hope we will resolve our differences regarding the delimitation of maritime zones in the Aegean and Eastern Mediterranean, creating a new dynamic of peace and security in the region. But even if we don’t reach that point, I wish that in ten years, we will have opened a new and lasting chapter in our relations: a chapter based on honesty, mutual respect, and understanding without tension and crisis,” he added.

Source: Newsroom