Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan has called on Greece to refrain from actions that could heighten tensions in the region, expressing concerns over Greece’s enhanced defense collaboration with Israel. Fidan emphasized Türkiye’s desire for amicable relations with Greece, urging Athens to consider security concerns, particularly regarding military cooperation with Israel and military deployments on Aegean islands that Türkiye believes should remain demilitarized under existing agreements.
Despite efforts to improve bilateral relations, Greece and Türkiye continue to grapple with unresolved issues, including disputes over maritime boundaries and the military status of islands in the Aegean Sea. Greece maintains that its defense posture is a response to security threats and a legitimate exercise of its sovereignty.
Fidan also addressed the broader regional context, criticizing Israel’s actions in Syria, which he described as potentially destabilizing. He reiterated Türkiye’s support for Syria’s efforts toward security, governance, and economic development, advocating for diplomatic solutions to regional conflicts.
In addition to the Greek issue, Fidan highlighted ongoing security cooperation among Türkiye, Saudi Arabia, and Pakistan. He noted that the countries are developing a framework for their emerging security partnership, exploring avenues for expanded collaboration.
Fidan affirmed Türkiye’s commitment to regional stability and coordination on security matters, including monitoring developments in Yemen and addressing threats to Saudi Arabia, with a focus on diplomatic engagement and collaboration.