Türkiye calls for dialogue with Greece, warns against concessions

Türkiye’s Defence Minister Yasar Guler has called for continued dialogue with Greece to resolve bilateral disputes, while warning that Ankara will not compromise on what it considers its rights and interests.

Speaking on Tuesday, Guler said Türkiye supported strengthening mutual trust and addressing outstanding issues through international law, good neighbourly relations and constructive dialogue, according to Kathimerini.

He also expressed Ankara’s willingness to expand cooperation with Greece in the Aegean Sea and the eastern Mediterranean, stressing the importance of resolving differences through mutual understanding and diplomacy.

However, Guler cautioned that Türkiye’s commitment to peaceful dispute resolution should not be interpreted as a willingness to make concessions.

“Our commitment to the peaceful resolution of disputes does not mean that we will make concessions on our rights and interests,” he said.

“Türkiye has both the means and capabilities to protect its rights under international law, as well as the political will to act decisively when deemed necessary,” he added.

Maritime dispute adds to bilateral tensions

Relations between the two neighbouring countries have faced renewed strain following the ratification by eastern Libya’s parliament of a 2019 maritime agreement with Türkiye.

The deal, which concerns maritime boundaries in the eastern Mediterranean, remains a source of regional tension amid competing claims over maritime rights and jurisdiction.

Guler’s remarks underline Ankara’s stated preference for maintaining communication with Athens while reaffirming its position on disputed issues in the Aegean and the eastern Mediterranean.

Source: Kathimerini.