Statement from Greece ahead of critical summit: It is important to overcome crises

Greek Foreign Minister Gerapetritis made assessments regarding the agenda in an interview with SKAI FM radio.

Responding to questions about Prime Minister Mitsotakis' visit to Turkey on May 13, Gerapetritis stated that meetings between Turkish and Greek leaders should not be "dramatized."

Gerapetritis noted that meetings between Turkish and Greek leaders should be considered routine, just like bilateral meetings between leaders of any other countries, saying, "It is important that we meet, talk, overcome crises, and take the next steps."

Addressing comments from the Greek opposition suggesting that Mitsotakis should postpone his visit to Turkey following the opening of the Kariye Mosque for worship, Gerapetritis stated that the government never considered such a possibility.

KARIYE MOSQUE DEBATE

Gerapetritis expressed Greece's dissatisfaction with the decision to open the Kariye Mosque for worship, pointing out that this was not a new decision, but one made in 2020.

Stating that there is no expectation for either country to change its fundamental positions in Turkish-Greek relations, Gerapetritis said, "Our expectation from the Turkish-Greek rapprochement is a period full of calm."

Gerapetritis emphasized that another of Greece's expectations is for communication channels between the two sides to remain open, pointing out that potential crises could be prevented in this way.

MITSOTAKIS IS COMING TO TURKEY

Emphasizing that the agreements signed between the two sides during President Erdoğan's visit to Athens on December 7, 2023, were important agreements that move the two countries' relations forward, Gerapetritis noted that these agreements are progressing systematically and will also be part of the meeting to be held between President Erdoğan and Mitsotakis in Ankara on Monday.

Regarding the meeting to be held between President Erdoğan and Mitsotakis on May 13, Gerapetritis said, "I think what we should expect is a sincere meeting. Issues that need to be raised will be raised. Thorny issues will also be addressed between the leaders and our delegations. A roadmap will be drawn for the next steps regarding meetings that include a positive agenda, political dialogue, and confidence-building measures."

Stating that Mitsotakis' visit to Turkey on May 13 is an important step to be taken in bilateral relations, Gerapetritis noted that the next important step is for the two leaders to meet in Washington in July within the scope of the NATO Summit.