The lack of dialogue, in particular political dialogue, between Greece and Turkey poses significant risks. The heightened tension between the two countries appears to hinder any type of high-level communication, the purpose of which would be to dispel misunderstandings that could ultimately lead to what is now avoidable. Greece must directly resume exploratory talks in order for the two sides to examine all possibilities of a peaceful co-existence. As long as Turkey is not shying away from existing international law, there is the potential for a significant step forward. A fruitful move would be drafting an agreement based on which the International Court of Justice in the Hague could secure de-escalation in the Eastern Mediterranean and solidify peace and stability in the region.
- The current state of Greek-Turkish relations does not inspire optimism for stability in the region.
- The absence of dialogue between the two sides carries risks.
- The use of the political channels must be reinvented.
- The initiative for disengaging Greek-Turkish relations from the current negative stagnation must become a priority.
- Greece has every interest in seeking a judicial solution to the issue of the continental shelf / EEZ.
You may find the Policy brief by George Kaklikis, Ambassador ad hon., Senior Policy Advisor of ELIAMEP here. (in Greek language).