The decades-long dispute between Greece and Turkey over the maritime boundaries and resources of the Aegean Sea has taken a new turn. Both countries presented their plans for maritime zoning, accusing each other of violating international law and usurping territory.
Relations between the two NATO allies, Greece and Turkey, have once again escalated over a long-standing territorial dispute in the Aegean Sea. Greece has lodged an official protest against a maritime zoning plan submitted by Turkey, accusing Ankara of attempting to claim areas under Greek jurisdiction.
According to Reuters, political analysts fear the incident could further exacerbate divisions between the countries, which have been at odds for decades over maritime boundaries, mining rights and the status of Cyprus.
The conflict erupted after Turkey officially published its own maritime zoning map, prepared by Ankara University and approved by UNESCO's Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission. This document defines areas for various economic activities such as fishing, tourism and energy projects.
In response, the Greek Foreign Ministry said the Turkish plan “aims to usurp territories under Greek jurisdiction” and is “null and void.” Athens emphasized that such issues should be resolved through bilateral agreements and called on Turkey to drop its claims, threatening “appropriate measures in all international forums.”
It is worth noting that earlier Greece also presented its maritime zoning plan, which, in turn, displeased Ankara. The Turkish side stated that it would not accept a possible “fait accompli with regard to geographical objects whose status is disputed”.