Following statements by Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan regarding Greek-Turkish relations, and his repeated reference to a “Turkish minority in Western Thrace,” diplomatic sources provided the following clarifications:
- The agenda remained consistent with prior meetings, covering bilateral, international, and regional issues, including the Cyprus problem.
- Greece raised concerns regarding investigations into electrical interconnection projects.
- No sovereignty issues were discussed.
- There was no agreement on a framework for discussing the delimitation of Exclusive Economic Zones (EEZ) and continental shelf boundaries.
- The Treaty of Lausanne is explicit and leaves no room for misinterpretation: it refers to a Muslim minority.
- Türkiye’s persistent reference to a non-existent “national minority” contradicts its obligation to faithfully implement international law.
- Greece will continue its policies of equality and equal rights for all Greek citizens.
Earlier, Fidan stated that efforts to develop a positive agenda intensified during high-level meetings between Greece and Turkey in 2024, with dialogue mechanisms becoming more functional.
Fidan also claimed that based on the Athens Declaration on friendly relations and good neighborliness, “expectations to avoid provocations from Greece” were conveyed, and steps for close consultation were taken during his visit to Greece on November 8.
The Turkish Foreign Minister reiterated references to a “Turkish minority in Western Thrace” and “compatriots” in the Dodecanese, asserting that resolving their issues remains a priority in Ankara’s relations with Athens.
According to Türkiye’s state news agency Anadolu, Fidan emphasized that the Turkish Ministry of Foreign Affairs continues to safeguard Türkiye’s rights and interests in the Aegean and the Eastern Mediterranean. “During our recent visit to Athens, we demonstrated our firm stance on this issue,” he added.
He further announced that the 6th High-Level Cooperation Council meeting between Greece and Türkiye is scheduled to take place in Ankara in early 2025.
Fidan on Turkish Policy in the Balkans
Discussing Türkiye’s role in the Balkans, Fidan remarked, “Our country remains an influential actor in the Balkans, a region marked by competition among global powers. Through strategic relationships with every Balkan country, we deepened cooperation across sectors such as trade, investments, defense, security, and cultural relations during our 2024 engagements.”
He emphasized Türkiye’s proactive and constructive role in the region, prioritizing interaction with all stakeholders. “We maintain close contact with our compatriots and related communities in the Balkans, working alongside national authorities to ensure their peace and prosperity,” Fidan concluded.
