Turkish FM Fidan Calls for Comprehensive Dialogue with Greece on Aegean Disputes, Including Island Demilitarization

Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan has emphasized that Turkey’s dispute with Greece extends beyond maritime boundaries and encompasses broader issues, including the demilitarization of Greek islands. In a recent interview with Turkish television channel A Haber, Fidan highlighted that the problems in the Aegean are multifaceted and require comprehensive dialogue between the two nations.

“We have problems in the Aegean; we don’t have just one problem, we have many problems, we have to discuss them,” Fidan stated. Among the issues he outlined were the militarization of islands that Turkey argues should be demilitarized, disputes over the continental shelf, territorial waters, unresolved status of various formations, airspace issues, and exclusive economic zones (EEZ).

Greece has maintained its long-standing stance that sovereignty questions are non-negotiable and cannot be included in bilateral talks, despite Turkey’s call for dialogue on a broad spectrum of issues. Greece continues to prioritize the pursuit of international adjudication exclusively regarding the continental shelf and EEZ dispute.

In his remarks, Fidan suggested a more inclusive approach to resolving these disputes, stating, “There are many issues. For these issues, after describing them properly, we can proceed with the appropriate solution.” He also reflected on the need for a different approach by considering past efforts and potential new pathways.

Fidan articulated a vision of converting the Aegean into a region of peace and prosperity, alluding to President Erdogan’s appeal for collaboration. “Rather than focusing solely on the issues, let us ascend to a higher level. As our president has stated, the Aegean is an exceptional environment.” “We aspire to transform it into a paradise that promotes the prosperity, security, peace, and happiness of both nations, and we will achieve this through the signing of political and military agreements,” he stated, emphasizing his desire for agreements that would be mutually beneficial.