Turkey has expressed its stance regarding the Great Sea Interconnector Project, which aims to integrate the electricity systems of Greece and Cyprus. Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan indicated that while Turkey is not opposed to the initiative, it requires formal written notifications concerning any maritime surveys conducted in the region. This request emphasizes the necessity of maintaining the existing balance in the Aegean Sea.
Formal Notification Requirements
In a recent interview with the Ta Nea newspaper, Fidan articulated Turkey’s demand for written documentation regarding maritime activities, rather than relying solely on verbal notifications. This formal approach is aimed at ensuring transparency and minimizing the risk of any disruptions that could affect the current state of affairs in the Aegean region. Fidan remarked, “We do not want the status quo to be disrupted in a completely wrong way, nor do we want a precedent to be set that would create even greater problems for both sides.” Under these conditions, Turkey has expressed a positive stance toward the interconnector project.
Discussions With Greek and French Leaders
Fidan noted that discussions about the project had taken place with both Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis and French President Emmanuel Macron. He also referred to Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan’s suggestion that Cyprus could import electricity, water, and gas from Turkey, potentially avoiding the excessive costs associated with transporting electricity over long distances. This approach highlights Turkey’s readiness to contribute to the energy needs of Cyprus while maintaining beneficial bilateral relations.
Improving Greek-Turkish Relations
Addressing the broader context of Greek-Turkish relations, Fidan remarked on the recent easing of tensions since both governments agreed in 2023 to prioritize confidence-building measures. The absence of aerial confrontations between the two nations is a significant indicator of improved relations. However, he pointed out that ongoing anti-Turkish rhetoric in Greek politics continues to pose challenges in resolving historical disputes.
Furthermore, Fidan defended Turkey’s 1995 parliamentary declaration, known as casus belli, issued in response to Greece’s potential extension of territorial waters to 12 nautical miles. He clarified that this declaration was not meant as a war threat but as a necessary precaution to safeguard Turkey’s interests should the matter remain unresolved through diplomatic channels.
Encouraging Political Dialogue
Fidan called for a political dialogue to address the issues between the two countries, urging Greece to engage with President Erdogan while he remains in office. This call for dialogue reflects Turkey’s willingness to find mutually agreeable solutions rather than escalate tensions.
As part of this diplomatic effort, Fidan was scheduled to meet EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas in Brussels, indicating ongoing discussions at various levels to resolve these intricate regional issues. He also clarified that no new legislative measures concerning Turkey’s “Blue Homeland” maritime doctrine were currently under consideration, and the matter of maritime parks had yet to be addressed.
Overall, Turkey’s cautious support for the Great Sea Interconnector, coupled with its emphasis on formal communication and political dialogue, illustrates its desire to enhance regional stability while navigating complex inter-state relationships.