Greek and Turkish Foreign Ministers to Meet

Greek Foreign Minister George Gerapetritis is set to meet Turkish counterpart Hakan Fidan in Athens on November 8 to address critical bilateral issues, primarily focusing on the demarcation of maritime zones and airspace rights in the eastern Mediterranean. Relations between the historically rival NATO allies, Greece and Turkey, have seen a potential thaw as Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan indicated a desire for improved ties. The upcoming meeting is viewed as a precursor to a high-level cooperation council scheduled for January in Ankara, where further discussions on energy resources and jurisdictional disputes are anticipated. Both countries aim to resolve longstanding issues through dialogue, despite Turkey's demands regarding the demilitarization of certain Greek islands and its non-recognition of the United Nations Law of the Sea. Meanwhile, the leaders of Greek and Turkish Cypriots are expected to engage in informal discussions with U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, highlighting ongoing tensions in Cyprus that date back decades. The situation remains delicate as both nations strive for stability and cooperation amidst complex historical grievances.