The meeting on Friday of the Greek and Turkish foreign ministers, George Gerapetritis and Hakan Fidan, in Athens is expected to confirm the willingness of the two sides to hold substantive discussions that could lead to the next steps on the contentious issue of the delimitation of the continental shelf and the exclusive economic zone (EEZ) in the Aegean and the Eastern Mediterranean.
The meeting is not merely ceremonial but holds significant weight for the future trajectory of Greek-Turkish relations. Future rounds of talks are likely to continue into December, with the aim of establishing a broader framework for cooperation and conflict resolution.
Both Greece and Turkey have expressed a commitment to continuing dialogue, with this meeting signaling an important step in the ongoing effort to stabilize their bilateral relationship. Although substantive progress is yet to be made in the negotiation process, sources suggest the discussions are crucial for maintaining momentum in the peaceful resolution of these disputes.
In an interview on Thursday with the Turkish newspaper Hurriyet, Gerapetritis reiterated that for Athens the delimitation of the continental shelf and EEZ between Greece and Turkey is the one and only dispute between the two countries that can be brought before international jurisdiction.
The meeting comes at a critical time for the two countries, with regional security and the broader geopolitical environment impacting their talks. The Middle East’s volatility and the changing dynamics in the US presidency add further complexity to the relationship.
Additionally, the dialogue will extend beyond maritime issues. Greece and Turkey are also expected to discuss confidence-building measures (CBMs), the Cyprus dispute, and Turkey’s stalled European Union accession process. Gerapetritis has reiterated Athens’ position on Cyprus, emphasizing the need for a solution that respects the United Nations’ parameters. With Turkey’s EU accession negotiations currently at a standstill, Greece’s continued support for Ankara hinges on the fulfillment of European conditions.
