May elections will shape the future of Turkish-Greek relations

Relations with Greece and Türkiye constitute one of the most important aspects of both policies. The two neighboring countries sharing the same geography are also allies within the framework of the NATO alliance. Despite these facts, there are many interrelated problems between Türkiye and Greece in the Aegean and Mediterranean, many inherited from the past and yet to be resolved.

Both Ankara and Athens plan to discuss many vital issues concerning bilateral relations after the general elections in May. Speaking to the Greek media, Greek Foreign Minister Nikos Dendias emphasized that "the current calm atmosphere in Turkish-Greek relations has no expiration date".After the elections, we will engage in a serious discussion to resolve our differences."

EMPOWERED DIALOGUE TO SOLVE PROBLEMS

Stating that the 63-round exploratory talks between Türkiye and Greece were far from yielding the desired results, Dendias said, "Small issues cannot be resolved by a different process unless there is a convergence in big issues."

Dendias also underlined that it is not possible to find a solution to the disputes between the two NATO allies through a multilateral conference.

TWO NEIGHBORS LENT A HELPİNG HAND TO EACH OTHER IN DIFFRENT TIMES

Greece was one of the first countries to convey its condolences and offer assistance after the twin earthquakes that affected 11 provinces in southern Türkiye on February 6th.

Likewise, Türkiye was the first country to offer its condolences and aid wishes after the train accident that took place in northern Greece on February 28, in which at least 57 people lost their lives.

After the accident, Türkiye allowed a Greek prisoner to be transferred to Greece to attend his son's funeral.

Last week, Greek Defense Minister Nikolaos Panagiotopoulos visited Türkiye and met with his Turkish counterpart, Hulusi Akar.