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Turkey’s ruling AKP spokesman Ömer Çelik has issued a fresh warning to Greece over developments in the Aegean and Eastern Mediterranean, saying Ankara’s preference for dialogue should not be mistaken for weakness.
Speaking against the backdrop of continued tensions between Greece and Turkey, Çelik called on Athens to avoid what Turkey considers provocative actions in the region. He said Ankara wants disputes to be handled through diplomacy, but also stressed that Turkey is aware of the capabilities at its disposal both at the negotiating table and on the ground.
“The last thing we want in such instability is provocative actions in the Aegean and Eastern Mediterranean,” Çelik said.
His comments reflect Turkey’s longstanding position on its disputes with Greece. Ankara has repeatedly accused Athens of taking steps that increase tensions, while Greece rejects Turkish claims and maintains its own positions on issues concerning the Aegean and Eastern Mediterranean.
Çelik also criticised the use of Aegean disputes in Greek domestic politics, arguing that this creates what he described as a “toxic vicious cycle”.
He said neither side should turn regional disputes into matters of domestic political competition. He also rejected the use of third parties to convey messages to Turkey, saying Ankara would not recognise or accept such communications.
Turkey reacts to US decision on Cyprus
Çelik also turned his attention to Cyprus, attacking the US decision to extend the lifting of its defence trade restrictions on the Republic of Cyprus.
The AKP spokesman described the American decision as “wrong” and said it damages trust.
Washington has in recent years taken steps to strengthen defence cooperation with the Republic of Cyprus, including the removal of longstanding restrictions on US defence trade with the island.
Turkey has strongly opposed these measures, arguing that changes to the military balance on Cyprus should not take place without consideration of Turkish and Turkish Cypriot interests.
Çelik repeated Ankara’s claim that Turkey has a role as a “guarantor power” in Cyprus and reaffirmed its support for the Turkish Cypriot administration in the north.
He added that Turkey’s position on the Cyprus issue would remain firm and become stronger in the future.
