A day before Greek Foreign Minister George Gerapetritis is set to meet his Turkish counterpart Hakan Fidan in Athens on Friday, November 8, the two top diplomats laid out their respective positions in two separate interviews.
The Greek foreign minister, in an interview with Hurriyet, emphasized the importance of peaceful coexistence and economic cooperation between Greece and Turkey, clarifying that the delimitation of the continental shelf and Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) is the sole issue between the two nations, one that could be resolved through international jurisdiction.
“The two countries must build bridges of friendship without disregarding the historical experiences of the past,” Gerapetritis stated, underscoring Greece’s commitment to resolving disputes peacefully based on international law.
On his part, Hakan Fidan, speaking to Ta Nea, stressed Turkey’s desire to enhance cooperation with Greece and advance a positive agenda for dialogue. While advocating for the protection of Turkish national interests in the Aegean and Eastern Mediterranean, he expressed hope for a sincere approach from Athens.
“We have many interconnected issues that cannot be limited solely to the question of the continental shelf and the EEZ. We believe it is time to address all these matters with mutual respect and cooperation,” he remarked.
Addressing the Cyprus issue, Fidan reiterated the existence of two distinct states on the island, suggesting that they could coexist peacefully as neighbors. He noted a new spirit on the island that could foster prosperity, security, freedom, and sovereignty for both Greek Cypriots and Turkish Cypriots.
Citing diplomatic sources, the Greek newspaper To Vima reports that the agenda of talks between the two men will focus on bilateral and international matters, while they will also broach issues related to cooperation on the immigration front and the Cypriot issue.
The same sources add that the two delegations will explore the prospect of whether there are conducive conditions for discussions on the delimitation of the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) and the continental shelf.
Athens has made it clear that it would avoid engaging in any talks involving matters of Greek national sovereignty or defense, the same sources stress, adding that Greece would not entertain any talks about a “win-win” proposal or Erdogan’s dream of a “mutually beneficial” proposition if the Turkish Foreign Minister tables them during the meeting.
As announced, on Friday, November 8, at 10:30 a.m., Greek Foreign Minister George Gerapetritis will welcome Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
The meeting will begin with a private discussion between the two ministers. At 12:30 p.m., they will make joint statements to the media. Following the press event, Minister Gerapetritis will host a luncheon in honor of Hakan Fidan.
