Regional Developments and Greek-Turkish Relations

On Wednesday, June 10, the Hellenic Foundation for European and Foreign Policy (ELIAMEP) hosted a closed discussion on “Regional Developments and Greek-Turkish Relations”. The discussion focused on how the war in Ukraine, as well as the escalation in the Middle East and the Persian Gulf, are affecting relations between Greece and Turkey, and how the two countries assess the opportunities and constraints arising from current international developments.

In this context, participants discussed different interpretations of Turkish foreign policy and the ways in which Ankara seeks to strengthen its regional role and influence, particularly in the Eastern Mediterranean and towards Middle Eastern states.

The discussion also highlighted Greece’s positive trajectory in enhancing its defense capabilities, as well as the need for continued investment in diplomatic initiatives and the further development of strategic partnerships and alliances.

Participants further examined the potential future integration of the European and Turkish defense industries, underlining the role Turkey may play in European defense in the years ahead, as well as the challenges and opportunities such a development could create for both Greece and the European Union.

Particular emphasis was placed on the Cyprus issue as a key element of the broader Greek-Turkish agenda. Participants discussed the extent to which the lack of progress on Cyprus affects prospects for resolving or managing other disputes in the Eastern Mediterranean, as well as the importance of maintaining open channels of communication and dialogue.

The discussion also highlighted the distinct dynamics of the Aegean Sea and the Eastern Mediterranean, with several participants noting that the two geographical theatres differ in terms of the issues at stake, security perceptions, and prospects for managing disputes.

Reference was also made to the role of the media and public discourse in shaping public opinion in both countries, as well as to the importance of avoiding escalation and the creation of new faits accompli.

Finally, participants reflected on the broader challenge of managing Greek-Turkish relations in an increasingly fluid regional environment. The discussion underscored the need to move beyond cycles of action and reaction and to explore initiatives that could contribute to stability, confidence-building, and the creation of conditions for a more meaningful dialogue in the future.