The meeting between Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan in Ankara on Wednesday marked a significant shift in diplomatic relations between Greece and Turkey, resulting in complete satisfaction in diplomatic circles and positive reception from media in both countries.
Mitsotakis & Erdogan meeting: What changes in Greek-Turkish relations after yesterday’s summit, how Athens evaluates it
The change in atmosphere is remarkable when considering that from the aggressive rhetoric of “Mitsotakis yok” by Erdogan in 2022, the two leaders have moved to an approach characterized by the Turkish president’s personal address of “Dear friend Kyriakos.” This new atmosphere was particularly evident from Mr. Erdogan’s statement that, despite the complexity of existing problems, their resolution based on International Law is feasible, provided there is good faith and willingness for constructive dialogue.
At the center of discussions were the critical issues that traditionally cause disagreements, primarily the delimitation of the continental shelf and Exclusive Economic Zone in the Aegean and Eastern Mediterranean. Kyriakos Mitsotakis reiterated the firm Greek position that this difference constitutes the only point for resolution, which must be brought before an international jurisdictional body with strict adherence to International Law and Law of the Sea. Indeed, he expressed optimism that current conditions might allow for positive development in this direction.
Additionally, issues such as casus belli were discussed, although the reference was made without using that specific term. Particular tension was observed in statements regarding minorities. Recep Tayyip Erdogan referred to a “Turkish minority” in Western Thrace, focusing on expectations for full religious freedom and educational opportunities. Kyriakos Mitsotakis’s response was immediate and clear, emphasizing that the minority regime is defined with absolute precision by the Treaty of Lausanne, which explicitly states it concerns a religious minority, excluding any other misinterpretation. This confrontation recalled the tension of April 2021, when then Foreign Minister Nikos Dendias clashed with Mevlut Cavusoglu over references to a “Muslim community.”
“Window of opportunity” for Cyprus
Regarding Cyprus, the Greek Prime Minister spoke of a “window of opportunity” and the need to restart dialogue from where it was interrupted in 2017. Although Mr. Erdogan did not provide a specific answer, he limited himself to invoking International Law. Finally, the Turkish President raised the issue of cooperation in European defense initiatives, characterizing it as a common interest of both countries.
In the field of international developments, the two leaders exchanged views on Ukraine and the Middle East, recognizing the need for a mutually beneficial and functional relationship. Kyriakos Mitsotakis specifically condemned Israel’s settlement expansion and annexation of the West Bank, while on Syria, he called on the Turkish President to work together for political stability in the country and to work toward its reconstruction. The meeting concluded with hope that dialogue will continue in a framework that will allow overcoming chronic differences.
