Luxembourg: Greek Foreign Minister Giorgos Gerapetritis met with Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan on the sidelines of the EU Foreign Affairs Council. The meeting focused on bilateral relations and recent regional and international developments.
According to Cyprus News Agency, the discussion highlighted the election of Tufan Erhurman as the new Turkish Cypriot leader, which Gerapetritis described as a potential catalyst for the reunification of Cyprus, in line with UN Security Council Resolutions. The ministers also exchanged views on the Middle East, emphasizing the importance of maintaining the ceasefire and implementing the peace plan for Gaza to ensure regional stability.
Gerapetritis briefed Fidan on Greece’s stance on the European defense industry, underscoring Greece’s commitment to a stronger, strategically autonomous Europe. He reiterated that the delimitation of the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) and continental shelf remains the sole point of contention between Greece and Turkey, dismissing any discussions on sovereignty issues.
In discussions on the Eastern Mediterranean, Gerapetritis proposed a 5+5 multilateral meeting of coastal countries to address geopolitical changes and enhance regional cooperation. The ministers also addressed developments in Cyprus’ occupied territories and the planned informal meeting on the Cyprus issue, slated for late 2025. Gerapetritis reiterated the hope for reunification with Erhurman’s leadership, guided by UN resolutions.