Greek Foreign Minister George Gerapetritis stressed the importance of adhering to international law in resolving maritime border disputes, emphasizing that maritime zones are not areas for negotiation. This statement comes after his meeting with UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres in New York. Gerapetritis highlighted that seas and oceans are not privileges for any state or private property of any party.
Gerapetritis reiterated that relations between neighboring countries are governed by international law, which must be respected. He emphasized that Greece will not tolerate any violation of law regarding maritime zones, reaffirming Athens' stance on adopting international law as a means to settle disputes. The minister stressed the need for cooperation between neighboring countries to resolve their differences.
When asked about reports of Turkey's efforts to reach an agreement with Egypt to demarcate maritime borders, Gerapetritis pointed to the strategic and fraternal relations between Athens and Cairo. He confirmed that there is a consensus between the two countries on the full application of international law. Gerapetritis also noted Egypt's support for Greece at the UN regarding the Turkish-Libyan memorandum on maritime zones.
The Greek minister described the Turkish-Libyan memorandum as illegal and invalid. He warned of the potential consequences of treating maritime zones as areas for competition, which could negatively impact coastal states, global trade, food security, and energy security. Gerapetritis emphasized that Greece will not compromise on the law regarding maritime zones.
Gerapetritis' statements reflect Greece's firm stance on upholding international law in maritime border disputes. His meeting with Guterres highlights the international community's attention to these issues. The Greek minister's emphasis on cooperation and adherence to international law is crucial in resolving these disputes peacefully.
The dispute over maritime zones in the Eastern Mediterranean has been a contentious issue, with Turkey and Libya signing a memorandum of understanding on maritime zones in 2019. Greece and Egypt have opposed this move, citing concerns over the delimitation of maritime borders. The issue remains a point of tension in the region.
Gerapetritis' warning comes as countries in the region seek to explore and exploit their maritime resources. His statement serves as a reminder of the need for countries to respect international law and cooperate in resolving their differences. The international community will be watching closely as these disputes unfold.
Key points
- Greece will not tolerate any violation of international law regarding maritime zones.
- The Greek Foreign Minister emphasized the need for cooperation between neighboring countries to resolve their differences.
- The dispute over maritime zones in the Eastern Mediterranean remains a point of tension in the region.
