Gerapetritis on Greek-Turkish Relations: "We Stand at a Critical Crossroads"

07:51 17/10/2024 - Πηγή: iEfimerida

Greek Foreign Minister Mr. Giorgos Gerapetritis has described Greece and Turkey's current diplomatic efforts as a "critical crossroads" for the two nations, highlighting both the recent thaw in tensions and the complex challenges that remain.

Speaking in an interview with ERT radio, Mr. Gerapetritis outlined the cautious progress being made, while underscoring that Greece's fundamental national interests remain non-negotiable.

"We are indeed at

an important juncture in Greek-Turkish relations," said Mr. Gerapetritis, noting that recent improvements in dialogue have come after periods of significant tension.

However, he stressed that the two countries are still in the exploratory phase, discussing whether a framework exists to move forward with more substantive talks on the delimitation of the continental shelf and the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ).

"We are not there yet," he cautioned. "We are still determining the scope and principles of any future discussions."

Mr. Gerapetritis emphasized the gradual establishment of trust between the two sides, which has helped reduce the risk of further crises.

"There is now a relatively good level of understanding and a degree of mutual trust, which allows us to prevent new tensions and crises from emerging," he explained.

A key point for Greece, as Mr. Gerapetritis made clear, is the preservation of its sovereign rights. He firmly reiterated that Greece will never renounce its right to extend its territorial waters to 12 nautical miles, a right enshrined in international law.

"This is a right we retain, even though it hasn't been exercised throughout the post-dictatorship period. But the notion that we will permanently remain at 6 nautical miles is entirely unfounded."

The minister also reflected on the broader geopolitical landscape, characterizing it as one of the most challenging environments the post-war world has faced.

With two major conflicts in the region, he stressed the importance of Greece maintaining a strong diplomatic presence.

"It is vital that Greece continuously develops its diplomatic footprint and strengthens its international standing," he said. "Today, Greece is stronger than ever before on the global stage."

Reflecting on over 20 years of exploratory talks between Greece and Turkey, Mr. Gerapetritis acknowledged that these efforts had not borne fruit, often pushing both sides further from a resolution. Yet, he remained cautiously optimistic, noting that if both countries demonstrate a genuine political will, progress could be made.

"We have the chance, if there is agreement on the fundamentals, to move forward with the issue of delimitation. However, it is too early to predict such an outcome," he noted.

In the event that talks reach a deadlock, Mr. Gerapetritis said that a potential referral to the International Court of Justice in The Hague could be a final step—provided the two nations agree on the scope of the dispute.

However, he stressed that any agreement would only proceed if Greece's national interests are fully safeguarded and enjoy broad political and societal support.

As Mr. Gerapetritis prepares for an upcoming meeting with his Turkish counterpart, he expressed a strong belief in the value of diplomatic dialogue.

"We must discuss these issues," he said. "Our civilization teaches us that we can find solutions to our problems through dialogue. If Turkey is also willing to engage in sincere discussions, I believe there is room for real progress."

Mr. Gerapetritis concluded by reiterating Greece's readiness to exhaust every possibility for a peaceful resolution, while firmly protecting its sovereignty.

"For Greece, the priority is to secure its national interests while working towards a long-term solution that ensures peace and stability in the region."

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