New statements from the Turkish Foreign Minister regarding the Greek islands
Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan has made new statements regarding Greek-Turkish relations, focusing on the issue of the militarization of the Greek islands. According to Mr. Fidan, the presence of military forces on the Aegean islands is a source of concern and a threat to Turkey's security.
In his statements, the Turkish official argued that Turkey does not want Greece to become a "tool" for forces seeking to destabilize the wider region. Mr. Fidan called on the Greek side to reconsider its stance and to take steps that would contribute to the de-escalation of tension.
The issue of the demilitarization of the islands has been one of the main points of disagreement between Athens and Ankara for many years. Greece, for its part, consistently maintains that it has the legal right to defend itself and protect the sovereignty of its islands, based on international law and its security needs.
The international community is closely monitoring developments in the region, as maintaining stability in the Aegean is considered critical for the security of the entire Mediterranean. Diplomatic contacts between the two countries continue, with the aim of avoiding tensions and promoting dialogue despite the differing positions held by both sides.