The Turkish Defense Ministry stressed at the end of September that Athens did not coordinate or previously notify that activity, described by Ankara as ‘illegal and aggressive’.

Turkey activated the Navtex system on maritime security on September 21st after a similar action by the Greek executive, which raised tension on both sides in the region.

Both countries claim as theirs the right to exploit hydrocarbons in the Mediterranean Sea, which has been a point of friction for years and on several occasions raised tensions nearly to the breaking point.

Repeated attempts at dialogue have been frustrated despite the mediation of the European Union, which Greece belongs to, since the background of the bilateral differences transcends the geographical scope.

Discrepancies on religious, cultural and diplomatic issues weaken the relationship that at times becomes belligerent and threatens a conflict in the region, despite the fact that the parties have expressed their willingness to dialogue.

pgh/llp/mem/ehl