GREEK-TURKISH DISPUTES

Ironically, the article is entirely self-contradictory as it offers quotes of Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan that amount to a clear threat of a declaration of war against Greece.

There has been a record number of of Turkish violations of Greek airspace and territorial waters so far this year, and Ankara’s lays claim, counter to international law, to dozens Greek islands and islets.

'This is a Turkish map. You see where the dividing line is and you see that Crete is also coloured red [as Turkish territory]. Now, if Turkey starts from that point of view, how can we ever have a good understanding with Turkey?'

Politicians in Greece and Turkey know what the content of a compromise will be, and they are certain that it will not go over well with public opinion in their countries.

For two countries to refer disputes to the ICJ, they must first agree on the specific questions that they will pose to the court in a joint document called a compromis.

If Greece issues maps, that will create tensions, as they will be disputed by some. Yet, it will serve as an opportunity to refer Greek-Turkish disputes to the ICJ.

It has been apparent for some time now that the 'new sultan' of Ankara, in his effort to divert the attention of Turkish citizens from the continually worsening economic situation, has adopted a two-pronged approach to foreign policy.

The approach of kicking the can down the road has apparently been exhausted. It may also be time for political parties to come together, discuss the issues in-depth, and thresh out a single national line toward Turkey.