Alpha News

Egypt Assures Cyprus and Greece as Turkey Extends Olive Branch

Published January 19, 2026, 19:22

Egypt is playing a crucial role in the security of the European Union, including managing migration, and Cyprus and Greece strongly support it in Brussels. During a trilateral meeting of Foreign Ministers in Cairo, the Egyptian Foreign Minister assured his counterparts from Cyprus and Greece that their relations would not be affected by Turkey's approach. Turkish President Erdogan will visit Egypt on February 4th, marking an improvement in relations between the two countries despite previous disagreements over Turkey's support for the Muslim Brotherhood. Meanwhile, Turkey is seeking to improve its relations with Greece, with its Foreign Minister expressing a willingness for substantial dialogue and problem-solving. However, Ankara continues to pursue a dual tactic, threatening Greece with war over statements regarding the expansion of territorial waters and the creation of marine parks, which Turkey views as political tools. These threats relate to Greece's intention to extend its territorial waters to 12 nautical miles, as well as the establishment of marine parks, which Turkey sees as an attempt to restrict its freedom of navigation in the region. Turkey accuses Greece of using marine parks as a political means to advance its interests. The situation remains fluid, with Greece insisting on the need to resolve disputes through dialogue and international law, while Turkey continues to assert its claims and threaten unilateral action. Erdogan's visit to Egypt and the upcoming meeting with Mitsotakis are considered critical for restoring relations and avoiding further escalation of tensions in the Eastern Mediterranean.