Gerapetritis: Greek–Turkish “Calm Waters” strengthen Athens’ position in a fragmenting world
Speaking at an event organized by the Athens Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Gerapetritis said the defining feature of today’s international system is the collapse of long-standing certainties.
“The international geopolitical arena is characterized by the loss of stable reference points,” he noted, arguing that the foundations of the post-war global order have been fundamentally disrupted.
He attributed this shift to the erosion of international law and the weakening of multilateral institutions. Organizations such as the United Nations, the European Union, and the World Trade Organization are increasingly sidelined, he said, as states move toward more unilateral decision-making.
Within this evolving environment, Gerapetritis placed particular emphasis on relations with Türkiye, stressing that engagement between Athens and Ankara extends beyond geographic proximity.
“The pursuit of a sustainable and functional relationship with Türkiye is not a one-dimensional issue,” he said, pointing to its economic and geopolitical dimensions.
He described the current period of relative stability between Greece and Türkiye—often referred to as “calm waters”—as a critical window of opportunity. Over the past three years, this detente has enabled Greece to recover from the effects of its financial crisis, rebuild its defense capabilities, and reassert its international presence.
At the same time, Gerapetritis underlined Greece’s expanding network of strategic partnerships, including ties with the United States, Israel, Gulf countries, and India. These alliances, he said, form a broad arc that enhances Greece’s geopolitical influence and connectivity.
As a result, Greece is increasingly viewed as a reliable partner and a provider of security in the region, marking a significant shift in its international role.
In a period defined by uncertainty and fragmentation, Gerapetritis suggested that maintaining stability with Türkiye while deepening global alliances will remain central to Greece’s foreign policy strategy.
