Greece has rejected Turkey’s proposal for a maritime agreement with Syria, dismissing the Syrian government as a “transitional authority” incapable of signing legally binding accords.
The reaction came after Turkish Transport Minister Abdulkadir Uraloglu announced ongoing talks with Syria to delineate maritime boundaries. Greek diplomatic sources stated, “Syria’s transitional status does not validate such agreements. We are closely monitoring developments and are in constant communication with Cyprus, neighboring countries, and the European Union.”
Uraloglu described the proposed agreement as part of a broader strategy involving air, rail, and communication projects. The initiative mirrors Turkey’s controversial 2019 maritime accord with Libya, which was condemned as illegal by Greece and the EU.
Turkish officials and experts argue that an agreement with Syria could strengthen Ankara’s territorial claims in the Eastern Mediterranean, countering Greek and Cypriot proposals. Retired Turkish admiral Cihat Yayci suggested the deal could secure Turkey an additional 4,000 square kilometers of maritime rights.
The proposal aligns with Turkey’s renewed ambitions in the region following the collapse of the Assad regime in Syria. Greek officials, however, have expressed concerns that such an agreement could undermine their sovereignty and challenge the maritime rights of islands like Crete and Cyprus.
Athens has raised the issue with the EU, seeking collective opposition to Turkey’s moves. “Our priority is to prevent Turkey from fabricating a sense of legitimacy,” a Greek official stated. Greece is also reinforcing its alliances with Cyprus and Israel to counter Turkey’s regional strategies.
