Natural phenomena and historical data are changeable. What does not change is geography, which has placed our homeland in a region with a diverse ethnological mix, variable geometry, and constant conflicts. In such an environment, Greece and Türkiye have gone through historical phases of fluctuating tension and calmness.
The current situation is positive as regards the relations between the two countries: robust governments with fresh political legitimacy, a period of calm in the Aegean lasting several months now, and a declared willingness to enhance bilateral relations. In this regard, political and administrative communication channels have been developed in recent months, fostering an improved level of mutual understanding and facilitating the development of essential interpersonal relations. So that when differences arise, we do not end up with crises in the relations between the two countries.
Under these circumstances, the Greek government comes to the upcoming High-Level Cooperation Council with Türkiye with a sincere disposition for cooperation. We do not ignore fundamental differences in our understanding of international politics, as has surfaced in the ongoing crisis in the Middle East and our bilateral relations. After all, we are clear: issues of national sovereignty are in no case a subject of discussion. We emphasize mutually beneficial cooperation, namely a positive agenda with measures more of a commercial and economic character and confidence-building measures oriented towards the defense and military dimension.
Greece has acquired solid diplomatic capital, which, in combination with the significant upgrading of its defense power, enables it to approach discussions with confidence and with the consistency that characterizes our principled foreign policy, adhering to International Law and the fundamental principles of good neighborliness. We are well prepared for every diplomatic scenario that may arise - after all, such a complex effort of approach presupposes the continuous and in-practice sincerity of both parties. We realize the value of maintaining the existing positive climate, the détente both in rhetoric and actions, as well as the existence of sustainable decompression valves to relieve tensions. Only when conditions are conducive will we be ready to discuss our sole dispute that can be brought before international jurisdiction, namely the delimitation of the continental shelf and the exclusive economic zone.
The Greek government welcomes the upcoming High-Level Cooperation Council with awareness and seriousness. And with our gaze fixed on the next generations. It is to them we owe the legacy of a peaceful international neighborhood, which will substantially contribute to the prosperity and progress of our country.
November 25, 2023