A highly anticipated meeting between George Gerapetritis and Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan is set to take place in Athens next month. The focus of the talks will be on the next steps for negotiating the exclusive economic zone (EEZ) and continental shelf delimitation. In an interview with Kathimerini, Gerapetritis emphasizes the need for a new approach, as previous exploratory contacts have not yielded positive results. He believes that only action can generate momentum in diplomacy.
The discussions aim to evaluate the conditions for initiating substantive talks on the EEZ and continental shelf delineation. The dialogue between Greece and Turkey has made progress in building trust and improving communication channels to prevent crisis situations. While challenges remain, both sides are committed to working towards a peaceful resolution.
International law will serve as the foundation for any discussions, with a focus on achieving mutual understanding and respecting each other’s legal positions. Both countries acknowledge the importance of maintaining stability in the region, especially amidst ongoing conflicts.
Overall, the upcoming meeting presents an opportunity for Greece and Turkey to engage in constructive dialogue and find common ground on crucial maritime issues.