A clear message to Angara on international law and good neighbourly relations from Kaya Kalas.
The High Representative of the European Union for Foreign Affairs and Defence Policy Kaya Kalas invited Turkey to avoid actions and threats that undermine good neighbourly relations, underlining the need to respect the sovereignty of EU member states.
The statement was made in response to a question from PASOK MEP Giannis Maniatis, with Ms. Callas pointing out that Agyra must fully respect the sovereign rights of member states, including territorial waters and airspace, as well as the right to exploit natural resources, in accordance with international law and in particular the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea.
At the same time, he stressed that the European Commission has repeatedly made clear that it expects from Turkey a firm commitment to international agreements and to the peaceful settlement of disputes, including through recourse to the International Court of Justice, if necessary.
Referring to the situation on the ground, she noted that since February 2023, no overflights of Turkish military aircraft over populated areas of Greece have been recorded. However, she underlined that Turkey continues to issue navigation warnings that challenge Greek sovereign rights.
She noted that the Council of the European Union has acknowledged the improvement in Athens-Ankara relations, noting the need to maintain this climate, with the EU remaining committed to defending its interests and regional stability.
As regards the European Defence Projects of Common Interest (EDPCI), Ms. Callas underlined that their aim is to strengthen the EU’s defence industrial autonomy and preparedness, through multinational cooperation, demand consolidation and strengthening the technological and industrial base in the defence sector.
