Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan appeared optimistic about the future of relations between his country and Greece upon his arrival in Athens today, Thursday, during a visit that both countries hope will revive relations after years of discord. During a meeting with Greek President Katerina Sakellaropoulou, Erdogan stated, "It would be much more beneficial for the future if we look at matters from the perspective of the half-full cup."
The neighboring countries, which are NATO members, have been at odds for decades over issues including the starting and ending points of the continental shelf between them, energy resources, airspace over the Aegean Sea, and the ethnic division in Cyprus. The two countries came close to war in the 1990s, and in recent years, disputes have emerged over energy resources in the Eastern Mediterranean, defense issues, and migration, which have stalled diplomatic discussions.
Greek Foreign Minister welcomed the Turkish president at Athens International Airport before the Greek-Turkish Cooperation Council convened; this is Erdogan's first visit to Greece in six years. Erdogan is scheduled to meet with Mitsotakis, in their third meeting since July, when they agreed to resume talks at all levels.
A Greek government official stated, "Athens wants to emphasize a positive and beneficial agenda for both parties." Government officials mentioned that the meetings would result in a joint statement and agreements in sectors including economy, health, education, agriculture, migration, and tourism. President Sakellaropoulou told Erdogan, "Considering what is happening around us, it is perhaps more necessary than ever for Greece and Turkey to work together to enhance prosperity, maintain peace and stability, and respect international law."
Despite the goodwill, not much progress is expected on long-standing issues, according to officials from both countries. A statement from the Turkish presidency's media and communication department noted that Erdogan and Mitsotakis will co-chair the fifth meeting of the High-Level Turkish-Greek Cooperation Council. The statement added, "The meeting to be held in the Greek capital Athens, with the participation of relevant ministers from both countries, will discuss Turkish-Greek relations at all levels and ways to develop relations between the two neighboring countries."
In addition, the leaders are discussing current regional and international issues of concern to both nations. During the visit, agreements and memorandums of understanding are expected to be signed to enhance the legal framework of bilateral relations, according to the Turkish side.
