Following the lukewarm reactions recorded in Athens, Turkey seems to insist on the strategy of the accomplishments, making new declarations on the Turkolibyan memorandum. Foreign Minister George Gerapetritis, although late to meet Ankara’s challenges, issued a harsh statement condemning Turkish practices.
On Saturday, the Turkish side, through Foreign Ministry spokesman Ontzu Ketseli, attack the EU, accusing it of supporting the “maximalist” positions of Greece and Cyprus. In his official statement, Ketseli argued that the Turkolibyyan memorandum “is fully in line with international law” and that Turkey “will never allow its legal rights to be violated”.
The reaction from Athens was immediate and intense, with diplomatic sources responding that “the invocation of international law presupposes this to be adopted in complete”. Greece has accused Turkey of challenging the fundamental principles of international law, stating that the non -signing of the United Nations Convention on Sea Law and the threats of war in the event of legal rights are practices that do not allow any support or suggestion.
The Athens announcement stressed that “Greece will continue to serve international law and good neighborly relations”, while Turkey is called upon to respect these authorities. The statement also emphasizes that Greece does not intend to retreat from its policy, despite Turkish challenges in the eastern Mediterranean region.
International controversy around the region continue to evolve with a look at Ankara’s subsequent movements and EU reactions, with Athens remaining in full vigilance of developments.