Greek media praises Turkish President Erdoğan: “Turkiye, a game-changer in global chess”
In a comprehensive report, Greece’s leading newspaper To Vima examined Erdoğan’s position on the world stage under the headline: “Erdoğan and His Moves on the Chessboard: Turkiye Plays on Two Tables at Once.” The article praised Turkiye’s multi-dimensional diplomacy, noting that the long-circulated narrative of an “isolated Turkiye” has collapsed.
“A Multi-dimensional player”
To Vima stressed: “The isolation narrative has long collapsed. Turkiye is no longer alone; it is now a multi-dimensional player on the global chessboard.”
Mediator in the Russia-Ukraine Crisis
The report emphasized Erdoğan’s pivotal role in the Russia-Ukraine conflict, underscoring his direct dialogue with both Russian President Vladimir Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in pursuit of peace. The newspaper described Erdoğan’s hosting of delegations in Istanbul and his proposal for a third summit as a “strategic move.”
It also noted the impact of Bayraktar drones on Ukraine’s defense and the establishment of joint production facilities in Ukraine, presenting them as evidence of Turkiye’s growing diplomatic and economic influence.
Pioneer in Economic Cooperation
Erdoğan’s recent visit to China was described as “productive and fruitful” by To Vima, which highlighted his efforts to deepen economic ties as further proof of Turkiye’s leadership in global diplomacy and economic cooperation. Even Erdoğan’s decision not to attend the ceremonial segment was interpreted as a choice guided by diplomatic priorities.
A global actor
The newspaper detailed Turkiye’s expanding reach in the Black Sea, the Mediterranean, Libya, Somalia, Qatar, Chad, and Niger, noting that Ankara’s diplomatic initiatives and military presence position it as not merely a regional but a global actor. From Cyprus to Syria and Iraq, and through its support for Azerbaijan in Karabakh, Turkiye has emerged as a decisive force in diplomacy and security.
“A strong and very smart leader”
The article also underlined Erdoğan’s careful management of Middle Eastern balances, recalling U.S. President Donald Trump’s remark to Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu that Erdoğan is “a strong and very smart leader.”
An indispensable partner for Europe
According to To Vima, Europe is rediscovering Turkiye’s strategic importance: “European governments see Turkiye as a reliable and indispensable partner. They are ready to entrust part of Europe’s defense to Turkiye.”
The newspaper further noted Europe’s interest in investing in Turkiye’s defense and security expertise.
A legacy that will shift global balances
The analysis concluded by emphasizing Erdoğan’s enduring legacy: “Whoever inherits Turkiye after Erdoğan will find not only a regional but also a global legacy capable of shifting international balances.”
The commentary from To Vima demonstrates Greece’s acknowledgment of Turkiye’s rising global influence through multi-dimensional diplomacy, military deterrence, and economic outreach—cementing its status as a decisive power on the international stage.
Source: Milliyet
