Hakan Fidan identifies Greek internal politics as obstacle to bilateral resolution

Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan expressed skepticism regarding the progress of bilateral relations in an interview prior to the upcoming meeting between President Erdogan and Prime Minister Mitsotakis. While acknowledging the intent of Mitsotakis and Foreign Minister Gerapetritis to resolve long-standing issues, he identified the Greek domestic political environment as a significant barrier. Fidan specifically cited Defense Minister Nikos Dendias as a figure undermining diplomatic rapprochement to satisfy a particular domestic audience. He further claimed that Turkey has presented creative and progressive proposals in both formal and informal settings to facilitate a resolution. Regarding EU relations, Fidan noted that trade reached 230 billion dollars but remains hindered by political opposition from certain member states, specifically mentioning Cyprus. He also addressed the visa impasse, blaming a minority within the EU for blocking progress on Turkey’s candidate status.