“The recent statements by the American ambassador in Ankara, Tom Barak, are careful and, at first glance, sound positive, as they reflect Washington’s intention to contribute to stability and cooperation in the Eastern Mediterranean. It is natural for the United States to be concerned about the prospect of destabilisation of NATO’s south-eastern flank, as well as about the region’s return to the centre of international attention due to energy and geostrategic developments. However, any initiative that is undertaken must have, as its starting point and foundation, respect for international law.”
What stance should Greece adopt within the new context that is taking shape?
“Greece can discuss an American proposal, on the condition that the dialogue will not concern issues of national sovereignty and will be conducted exclusively on the basis of international law and good-neighbourly relations. Stability cannot be built through ad hoc balancing acts, but through clear rules and clearly defined positions. I believe that Greece can take a positive view of any sincere effort at de-escalation and communication, as has also happened in the recent past. At the same time, it remains steadfast in its position that security and prosperity in the Eastern Mediterranean can advance only with respect for sovereign rights and the international legal order.”