Message from Mitsotakis to Türkiye at the UN: It is our destiny to live side by side

Greek Prime Minister Kiryakos Mitsotakis gave messages regarding Türkiye-Greece relations at the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly. Mitsotakis said, "We cannot change geography, it is our destiny to live side by side." he said.

Mitsotakis also touched upon the relations between Türkiye and Greece in his speech at the UN General Assembly. Stating that they have made efforts to improve relations, build trust and keep dialogue channels open in the last three years, Mitsotakis said that possible crises should be prevented.

Stating that the relationship between Türkiye and Greece has a sensitive structure that carries the weight of history, Mitsotakis stated that there is a need for a common understanding on how the two countries will move forward in the face of regional and global developments.

Arguing that this understanding should be based on international law and good neighborly relations, Mitsotakis said, "As I have said many times, we cannot change the geography, it is our destiny to live side by side." he said.

Mitsotakis claimed that the only disagreement between Türkiye and Greece was the determination of the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) and the continental shelf.

The Greek Prime Minister argued that the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea is the only institutional framework for solving these problems.

Touching on the Cyprus issue, Mitsotakis claimed that this issue is a "litmus test" in terms of showing the UN's capacity to implement its own decisions.

Mitsotakis also said that they support UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres' efforts to restart negotiations on Cyprus.

Stating that the world is going through a dangerous period, Mitsotakis said that the UN and multilateralism are needed more in the period when conflicts and tensions increase.

Stating that the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea provides a legal framework for peaceful resolution of problems, Mitsotakis drew attention to the increasing tension in strategic sea lanes.

Mitsotakis said, "Strategic sea lanes from the Strait of Hormuz and the Red Sea to the Indo-Pacific Ocean are increasingly turning into areas of geopolitical conflict. Commercial ships are being targeted, vital commercial routes are being used as a means of pressure. This has serious consequences for supply chains, the energy market and food security at a global level." he said.

The Greek Prime Minister stated that protecting maritime trade is the responsibility of all countries.

Mitsotakis stated that the peace plan adopted for Gaza last year should be implemented. He said the reconstruction of Gaza should be carried out in a way that allows Palestinians to determine their own future.

Reminding Greece's strategic partnership with Israel, Mitsotakis also expressed his concern about the developments in the West Bank.

Mitsotakis said, "The developments in the West Bank remain a source of deep concern. Activities that are unlawful under international law and endanger the existence of a future Palestinian state cannot be allowed." he said.

Stating that there is an opportunity for permanent peace in Lebanon, Mitsotakis said that Greece supports a sovereign and united Lebanon.

Mitsotakis stated that despite the opportunities offered by artificial intelligence, regulations are needed in this field.