Greece has issued a stern diplomatic response to fresh accusations from Turkey regarding its stance on the controversial Turkey-Libya maritime agreement.
The Greek Foreign Ministry, through diplomatic sources, denounced Turkey’s latest comments as “incompatible with international law and good neighborly relations.”
The dispute was reignited after Turkish Foreign Ministry spokesperson Oncu Keçeli condemned the European Union’s position on the 2019 Turkey-Libya maritime memorandum, accusing Greece and Cyprus of pursuing “maximalist claims” that contradict international law and the principle of equality within the EU.
In response, Greek diplomatic officials stated, “Invoking international law requires a commitment to it in its entirety.” They pointed out that Turkey has not signed the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), adopted by 168 countries, and continues to challenge the established international legal order. They also referenced Turkey’s use of war threats against Greece’s sovereign rights and the conversion of UNESCO World Heritage sites, such as Hagia Sophia, into mosques.
“These practices disqualify Turkey from making legal or moral recommendations to others,” the sources added, reaffirming that Greece remains committed to upholding international law and fostering good neighborly relations.
Keçeli, however, doubled down on Ankara’s position, asserting that the Turkey-Libya maritime deal is entirely consistent with international law and is designed to protect Turkey’s legitimate rights and interests in the Eastern Mediterranean. He accused the EU of biased, politically motivated statements that, he claimed, threaten regional peace and stability.
“The EU should urge its member states to comply with international law instead of adopting unfounded claims,” Keçeli said, insisting that Turkey will continue defending its rights in the Eastern Mediterranean with determination.
This latest exchange underscores the deepening rift between Athens and Ankara over maritime boundaries, energy exploration, and geopolitical influence in the region. With both sides claiming adherence to international law, the dispute remains a volatile point in EU-Turkey relations and broader Eastern Mediterranean diplomacy.
