“Greece is not afraid of dialogue and has complete confidence in its positions, which are based on international law,” said Deputy Foreign Minister Tasos Hatzivasiliou, among others, speaking about the Greek government’s announcements on maritime spatial planning.
Specifically, speaking to the Open on Good Friday morning, Mr. Hadjivasiliou noted that “the Turkish reaction was expected”, adding that “Greek positions have been known for years.” As he pointed out, “the maps do not turn against anyone – they reflect the ultimate potential limits of the Greek EEZ”.
This plan, as he underlined, “does not cancel the re -establishment with Ankara, but instead enhances the transparency and institutional consequence of our country.” If we cannot find a common place with Turkey, then there is always the choice of international jurisdiction, the deputy minister said.
Criticizing the opposition, he underlined that “we are accused of foreign policy, those who did absolutely nothing in foreign policy in previous years” and answering a question by reporters, he said: “Greece has one of the largest coastlines in the world. Spatial planning requires study and serious work. The government was not afraid and is not afraid to defend the national interest. “
Concerning the Greece -Cyprus -Israel electric interconnection, he noted that “the map is not related to the cable. It is a solution to the future that settles the past, while the cable is a work of peace and prosperity. ” He recalled that the project is supported by the EU and the US and expressed the government’s intention to continue normally.
Concerning a report on contacts between Turkey and Syria on a possible EEZ agreement, Mr Hadjivasiliou made it clear that “transitional governments, such as that of Damascus, have no legalization to conclude international agreements” and pointed out that “it would be difficult for any country, other than Turkey. He also underlined that Greece is monitoring developments in Syria carefully, especially in relation to Christian populations.
Concluding, he made it clear that “Athens is not conducting a mapping competition with any country, let alone its neighbors” and added: “We reflect national positions with respect to international treaties. We are here for a dialogue for the only difference we have with Turkey. “