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The exploration of oil and gas in the region sparked a controversy against which each of the two neighboring countries affiliated to NATO carried out air and sea maneuvers in the strategic zone between the islands of Cyprus and Crete in the Mediterranean.
After Friday prayers, the Turkish president told reporters in Istanbul: “We have no problem meeting with the Greek Prime Minister (Kyriakos Mitsotakis), but the fundamental question is, what will we discuss and in what framework will we meet? “
The Turkish president stressed that the meeting is possible if it has “good intentions”, indicating the possibility of holding a videoconference or holding a meeting in a third country.
Erdogan stressed that Turkey will not be the party that escapes from sitting at the negotiating table.
The debate between the two countries revolves around Turkey’s deployment last month of the seismic reconnaissance ship “Thrones Reis”, escorted by warships to disputed waters near the Greek island of Kastelorizo.
The Turkish reconnaissance ship, which was the hub of tension, returned to shore last week for maintenance and resistance.
Erdogan indicated that the ship would resume work, emphasizing in return that his country had deliberately withdrawn it.
The Turkish president said that removing “Thrones Reis” to the port for maintenance “is an important step,” according to Anadolu Agency.
Erdogan considered that the measure should be interpreted as “giving diplomacy a chance” and as a “positive” gesture.
Meanwhile, the Turkish vessel “Yavuz” continues its oil and gas exploration work off the coast of Cyprus until October 12, despite international calls for its withdrawal.
The conflict between Ankara and Athens triggered a crisis that required the entry of member states of the European Union into the line, especially France, which deployed ships and fighters in the region in support of Greece.
European Union leaders are due to discuss imposing sanctions on Ankara at a meeting to be held September 24-25.
