Greek FM: No progress on Aegean issues

Ankara and Athens had decided to issue no statement before agreeing on something concrete, said the Greek FM, adding that these meetings were different from the ones conducted by previous administrations, because of Turkey’s European perspective.

He said use of force was rejected and that Greece would be satisfied to take the issue of the Aegean seabed to the International Court of Justice in The Hague.

He said the meetings were only held to inform each side, adding that territorial demands would bring no progress.

Papandreu said that 2004 would be an important year for Cyprus, because Turkey’s stance would be evaluated. He claimed that the Turkish military was still influenced by Turkey’s foreign policy, adding that he believed the military would continue to be part of an integral part in Greek-Turkish relations and on Cyprus.

He said elections in the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (KKTC) sent a positive message, adding that they were watching what Turkey would do next.

He said even though many settlers from the Turkish mainland had also cast their votes in the elections and many groups tried to influence their decision, most Turkish Cypriots want a solution on the island based on the Annan plan.

These elections were a turning point on the island and could be the dawn of a new era of peace and cooperation in the Eastern Mediterranean and the Balkans.