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Turkey 'Closely Monitoring' Military and Energy Cooperation in Eastern Mediterranean

Published January 15, 2026, 14:31
Turkey 'Closely Monitoring' Military and Energy Cooperation in Eastern Mediterranean

Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan stated that Turkey is 'closely monitoring' any military or energy cooperation in the Eastern Mediterranean, which it views as an attempt at 'encirclement'. However, he noted that these moves have not yet had an immediate impact, but Turkey has already warned those involved about the potential negative consequences. Mr. Fidan specifically referred to the cooperation between Greece, Israel, and Cyprus, emphasizing that Turkey believes such moves do not serve anyone's interests and may lead to regional fragmentation. He expressed his belief that a permanent solution to the problems in the Aegean Sea is possible, based on realistic analyses. Regarding Turkish-Greek relations, Mr. Fidan mentioned that contacts are underway for a meeting between the Greek Prime Minister, Kyriakos Mitsotakis, and the President of Turkey, Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, before Ramadan. He stressed the need for political will and a willingness to negotiate, with the aim of resolving existing issues, such as territorial waters and the continental shelf in the Aegean. Finally, Mr. Fidan proposed the implementation of confidence-building measures and the strengthening of contact between the two peoples, while noting that in Greek domestic politics, Turkey continues to be seen as a threat.