Mending Fences: Greece and Turkey's Evolving Relationship
After years of strained relationships, Greece and Turkey are making an apparent effort to mend fences. With Cyprus, border demarcations, and natural resources remaining contentious topics, the two countries have been tentatively moving closer together. Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis and President Recep Tayyip Erdogan recently met to discuss strengthening their relationship, expressing optimism for a new era of cooperation.
The meeting between Mitsotakis and Erdogan signified a step towards improving their relations, which have been a source of concern for the international community. "Geography and history have dictated that we live in the same neighborhood ... occasionally in confrontation," Mitsotakis admitted after the meeting, attributing his desire for cooperation to a sense of responsibility. Erdogan echoed this sentiment, emphasizing that "there is no problem between us that is unsolvable."
Enhancing Cooperation
The two leaders agreed to increase cooperation in multiple sectors, including tourism, trade, energy, migration, technology, and education. According to both sides, the volume of trade between Greece and Turkey is projected to double to ten billion US dollars (around 9.3 billion euros) over the next five years. Furthermore, Turkish citizens should be able to obtain one-week visas to visit ten Greek islands nearby with ease, as the EU has already approved this initiative.
Rekindling Trust
Erdogan and Mitsotakis's meeting in Athens rekindled hopes of resolving disagreements that have long plagued their relationship. While major issues remain unsettled – like sovereign rights in the Aegean and the right to mine resources such as natural gas under the seabed – Mitsotakis expressed hope that these disputes might eventually be resolved.
Previous tensions between the countries, such as gigantic accusations from Erdogan against Athens of occupying islands in the Aegean, are seemingly a thing of the past. The two nations have found common ground following the devastating earthquake in Turkey in 2023, which prompted Greece to send aid to their neighbor. Articles written in Turkish newspapers have also highlighted Erdogan's warm words for his Greek counterpart, calling Mitsotakis his friend.
Overcoming Obstacles
Despite the recent escalation in cooperation between Greece and Turkey, significant challenges remain. The road to resolution for once embittered neighbors is long and winding, as historical grievances and strategic disagreements won't dissipate overnight. Additionally, the international community and regional powers like NATO and the European Union are expected to play a crucial role in shaping the dynamics of their relationship.
A Tentative Step Towards Reconciliation
Erdogan and Mitsotakis's recent meeting heralds a potential new era of cooperation between Greece and Turkey, with increased focus on shared interests. However, it remains uncertain if the two nations will manage to overcome their entrenched differences and diplomatically settle their disputes for the betterment of both nations and the region.
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