Ankara: Turkish President Recep Erdogan says he firmly believes Trkiye and Greece, as neighbors and allies, should keep dialogue channels open based on cooperation. The Turkish President stated this while addressing a joint press conference after bilateral talks with Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis at the Turkish Presidential Complex in the capital Ankara.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Erdogan mentioned that Trkiye and Greece are working to increase bilateral trade to 10 billion dollars, up from nearly seven billion dollars last year. He highlighted that business councils from both countries also met to explore new opportunities for economic collaboration.
Recalling his visit to Athens on December 7, 2023, for the fifth meeting of the High-Level Cooperation Council, Erdogan noted that both sides had recorded their commitment to dialogue and improving bilateral ties through the Athens Declaration. He emphasized that current high-level contacts offer a favorable basis for further progress.
Erdogan stated that the two countries openly reviewed their respective positions on the Aegean and Eastern Mediterranean. While acknowledging the complexity of existing issues, he expressed optimism that they could be resolved through international law, goodwill, constructive dialogue, and a shared will to find solutions. Both leaders recognized the importance of maintaining dialogue channels and advancing relations through a positive agenda.
On minority issues, Erdogan stressed the need for historical responsibility regarding minorities, describing them as the human dimension of bilateral relations. He expressed Trkiye’s expectations that the Turkish minority in Western Thrace should fully benefit from religious freedoms and educational opportunities.
Addressing regional developments, Erdogan noted that as two NATO allies, Trkiye and Greece face multiple developments threatening their security and stability. He stated that Ankara views participation in recently launched European defense initiatives as mutually beneficial for both countries.
The leaders discussed other regional issues, including the ceasefire process and peace efforts in Gaza. Erdogan reiterated Trkiye’s rejection of Israel’s decision to expand control in the West Bank and weaken the Palestinian Authority. He emphasized that lasting peace and stability in the Middle East depend on a just solution to the Palestinian issue based on a two-state framework, and stated that Trkiye would continue to support this position. He suggested that Greece, as a non-permanent member of the UN Security Council for the 2025-2026 term, could help keep the two-state solution perspective on the council’s agenda.
The Turkish president also discussed efforts to restore stability in Syria and enable the country to contribute to regional peace. Erdogan highlighted the importance of Trkiye’s constructive role for the security of Greece and Europe.