Foreign Policy
In 2024, Greece and Turkey look to build on diplomatic progress made in previous months
In 2023, Greece and Turkey faced parliamentary and presidential elections respectively, which paved the way for a new chapter in their diplomatic relations. It became a year during which the two neighbouring countries experienced the calmest period in their bilateral relations, since the failed coup in Turkey in 2016.
Attention turns to next steps in solidifying Greek-Turkish relations
Greece and Turkey agreed to a roadmap for their political dialogue during the meeting between Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis and Turkey’s president Recep Tayyip Erdogan in Athens last Thursday.
Athens certifies improving mood in Greek-Turkish relations during Erdogan's visit
The Greek government seems satisfied with the outcome of the visit made to Athens on Thursday by Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, although opposition parties have applied pressure regarding the details of what was agreed and for Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis to show the tangible outcomes of his diplomacy.
Athens looks for improving mood rather than tangible outcome from Erdogan visit
Athens sees the High-Level Cooperation Council between Greece and Turkey, due to take place this Thursday, as yet another opportunity for both sides to retain the positive mood in bilateral relations, which has existed for roughly the last 10 months.
Athens prepares for Erdogan visit, high-level talks with Turkish officials
The High-Level Cooperation Council between Greece and Turkey, which will be held after seven years in Athens on December 7, is seen by both sides as a further step in the course of improving bilateral relations – a process that began earlier this year following the deadly earthquakes in Turkey.
Greece offers to assist in Gaza humanitarian effort
Greece has made itself available for humanitarian assistance for the people of Gaza but continues to adopt a more cautious approach regarding the conflict than other European capitals.
Greece promotes its suitability for mediatory role in Middle East
Athens is seeking a mediatory role in the Middle East if conditions permit it. This was the message that emerged following the joint statements Kyriakos Mitsotakis made with Cypriot President Nikos Christodoulides, following the first High Level Cooperation Council between Greece and Cyprus, in Athens on Friday.
Mitsotakis visits China to keep relations ticking over
Athens is seeking to maintain open diplomatic channels with China at a time when Beijing’s relations with Brussels and Washington are strained due to economic rivalries and different approaches in geopolitical crises.
Athens defends Gaza stance as balanced, offers role in humanitarian corridor
As Israel expands its offensive in the Gaza Strip via a series of ground incursions amid growing calls for a humanitarian pause, the EU has once again forwarded the “two-state solution” as its principle response to this conflict.
PM makes delayed Israel visit to offer support, express concerns about humanitarian impact
Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis made a short trip to Israel on Monday to reiterate Athens’s support for Israel’s right to self-defence, but in line with international humanitarian law.