In the most categorical way, the Minister of National Defence, Mr. Nikos Panagiotopoulos refuted reports by his Turkish counterpart in Turkish media that during their last meeting they raised the issue of "co-exploitation of the Aegean".
Of course no issue of "co-exploitation of the Aegean" was raised, nor could it have been," the Defence Minister said in a written statement. In his statement he said.
We agreed that the mild climate in bilateral relations can be extremely beneficial for both our countries, especially in view of the upcoming tourist season.
Of course, the issue of "co-exploitation of the Aegean" was not raised, nor could it have been".
What the Turkish media reported
Earlier, news websites of the neighbouring country, after the extraordinary meeting of NATO defence ministers, reported that Houloussi Akar, speaking to journalists, among other things, referred to benefits for both countries from co-exploitation both in terms of tourism and in terms of the rich resources of the Archipelago.
Asked about the latest state of Greek-Turkish relations, Houloussi Akar replied. We put our issues on the table honestly, openly, honestly and transparently."
Speaking about the Aegean in particular, as reported by trthaber, he noted: "This is important for the prosperity of the people of the two countries and the sharing of the beauties and riches of the Aegean. There is tourism, fishing and many other riches. We are in favour of using these together, we have said that. We received a positive response from our interlocutor in this sense, we expect them to move in this direction. We are constructive, positive, this is our approach."
These statements came a day after his "sudden" meeting with Greek Defense Minister Nikos Panagiotopoulos.
Speaking to reporters, Akar said he is waiting for the Greek delegation in Ankara for the Confidence Building Measures meeting and that this issue came to the fore in his meeting with Greek Defense Minister Nikolaos Panagiotopoulos.
Source: protothema.gr
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