Turkish-Greek talks in Athens to focus on confidence-building measures

Athens will host an important meeting between Greek and Turkish delegations on April 22, in line with the ongoing commitment to confidence-building measures.

The talks are part of a series of diplomatic engagements to enhance mutual understanding and reduce unnecessary military tensions between the two nations.

Ambassador Theoharis Lalakos will lead the Greek delegation, while Deputy Foreign Minister and Ambassador Burak Akcapar will head the Turkish side. This meeting marks the continuation of discussions that began on Nov. 13, 2023, in Ankara.

In the days leading up to this significant diplomatic encounter, military commanders from both countries are engaging in reciprocal visits as agreed upon during their last meeting.

Specifically, on April 16-17, the Greek Commander of the 3rd Mechanized Infantry Brigade based in Kavyli, Evros, visited the Turkish 54th Mechanized Infantry Brigade in Edirne.

Subsequently, on April 18-19, the Turkish Commander of the 4th Mechanized Infantry Brigade based in Kesan will return the gesture by visiting the Greek 31st Mechanized Infantry Brigade in Feres.

These interactions between military units are critical components of the confidence-building measures designed to foster a better understanding and prevent tensions.

As Greek Defense Minister Nikos Dendias pointed out, such measures are not about negotiating core issues of the Greek-Turkish dispute but are intended to ease the atmosphere between the armed forces of the two countries.

As the meeting date approaches, anticipation grows for productive dialogue that will hopefully lead to a more stable and peaceful relationship in the region.

This engagement is part of what has been termed a "positive agenda," aiming to build on the diplomatic groundwork laid during previous encounters, including the Athens Declaration signed shortly after President Recep Tayyip Erdogan visited Athens last December.

The results of these talks could also pave the way for further high-level engagements, potentially culminating in a meeting between Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis and President Erdogan in mid-May in Türkiye, as part of ongoing efforts to address broader bilateral issues.

Source: Newsroom