In a recent statement following his participation in a Shanghai Cooperation Organization summit, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan urged Greece to halt its military build-up on the Aegean islands. Erdoğan emphasized that Türkiye would not stand for what it perceives as breaches of international treaties, expressing a desire to sustain harmonious relations with Greece. However, he insisted that Athens reconsider its approach of stationing military forces on islands Ankara believes should remain demilitarized as per international agreements.
Greece, on the other hand, justifies its military presence on the islands by citing security concerns, asserting its right to defend its territory. This military tension is part of broader disputes between the two nations, which also include disagreements over maritime boundaries and the establishment of marine parks in the Aegean Sea. Erdoğan reassured that Türkiye harbors no ambitions to annex territory from other nations, yet he maintained that Ankara would steadfastly protect its perceived rights. He cautioned Athens that disregarding international accords could exacerbate tensions and advised learning from historical conflicts.
In addition to addressing the situation with Greece, Erdoğan expressed Türkiye’s interest in strengthening its involvement with the Shanghai Cooperation Organization while simultaneously nurturing its ties with Western countries. During his visit, he met with Russian President Vladimir Putin to discuss the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine, as well as security concerns in the Black Sea. Erdoğan highlighted the necessity of securing commercial shipping routes, noting the increasing risks faced by Turkish vessels in the region.
Erdoğan also engaged in discussions on defense collaboration with Saudi Arabia and Pakistan and reiterated Türkiye’s efforts to resolve the PKK conflict. Furthermore, he touched upon Ankara’s ongoing negotiations to rejoin the United States’ F-35 fighter jet program, emphasizing Türkiye’s commitment to advancing its domestically developed KAAN fighter jet while talks with Washington continue.