Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, pointing out to the potential for cooperation and opportunities in the Mediterranean, emphasizing that harnessing this potential could contribute to both the energy security of the regional countries and the resolution of political issues.
Erdoğan reiterated support for the proposal of the joint management and revenue sharing of reserves in Cyprus until a comprehensive solution is reached on the island.
In an interview with the Greek newspaper Kathimerini ahead of his planned visit to Athens, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan discussed developments in the Eastern Mediterranean.
Responding to his often-cited phrase “we may come without warning,” Erdoğan stated, “However, those who threaten us should be afraid of us,” reminding that they take necessary measures against terrorist elements that threaten the country’s security.
Erdoğan emphasized that defending the homeland and maintaining the peace of the nation is their natural right and reassured that they will continue to exercise this right against all terrorist threats.
He pointed out that Greece is not an enemy of Türkiye but a valuable member of the NATO alliance.
Erdoğan also highlighted that the existence of energy reserves in the Aegean and Eastern Mediterranean is a matter that can be determined not just by personal opinions but through scientific research.
He mentioned promising studies in this regard and underscored the strategic importance of ensuring and preserving energy security in the current international context.
In this context, Erdoğan specifically noted the potential for cooperation and opportunities in the Mediterranean, stating that harnessing such cooperation potential could contribute to both the energy security of the region and the resolution of political issues.
He warned that attempts to politically exploit this potential could pose a risk of not being able to utilize these resources.
Erdoğan expressed the belief that energy can be a collaborative and mutually beneficial factor among all countries and societies, emphasizing the preference for resolving conflicts through dialogue.
He mentioned proposing comprehensive conferences twice before for the opportunities in the Eastern Mediterranean but noted the lack of response from the EU.
Additionally, he reiterated support for the proposal of joint operation and revenue sharing of reserves in Cyprus until a comprehensive solution is reached on the island.
He emphasized the potential for collaboration in the Aegean as well, stating that there are many issues in which cooperation could be established for the well-being and peace of the people and future generations.