Greece’s assertive maritime spatial planning has triggered diplomatic responses from both Turkey and Egypt, escalating regional tensions. Athens’ recent announcement of its maritime zones, which overlap with claims by its neighbors, has led to threats of blocking EU loans for Turkey and a formal diplomatic protest from Egypt.
Greece’s Maritime Claims and Regional Reactions
Greece recently unveiled its Maritime Spatial Planning (MSP) map, outlining its maritime zones. This move has been met with strong objections from Turkey, which has warned that Greece’s unilateral actions will have no legal bearing on Ankara. Greece, in turn, has threatened to block Turkey’s access to EU loans due to ongoing tensions in the Aegean and Cyprus.
Egypt’s Diplomatic Stance
Egypt has officially rejected Greece’s maritime spatial planning, delivering a diplomatic note to the Greek Embassy in Cairo. The note highlighted that certain areas defined in Greece’s MSP overlap with Egypt’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) and continental shelf in the Mediterranean. Egypt expressed its objection to these interventions and stated that any resulting consequences would be unacceptable. However, Egypt also affirmed its openness to cooperation and consultation with Greece to maintain common interests and strengthen bilateral relations.
Greek Government’s Response
The Greek Foreign Ministry acknowledged Egypt’s reaction as an expected diplomatic correspondence, given that maritime zone delimitation between the two nations is pending. The ministry clarified that the map indicates potential boundaries based on the median line in areas where bilateral delimitation has not yet occurred. The Greek government’s announcement of the MSP map in April included details about existing delimitation agreements with Italy and Egypt, as well as its national legislation concerning hydrocarbon exploration.
Opposition’s Criticism
Greek opposition parties have criticized the government’s handling of the situation. The PASOK party leader accused the government of failing to disclose the diplomatic note until it was revealed by the media, labeling it as another foreign policy failure. The SYRIZA party spokesperson suggested that Greece’s current policy, influenced by Euro-Atlantic plans, is leading the country into potential adventures, especially with Egypt’s statement adding to existing claims from Turkey and Libya.
Key Takeaways
- Greece’s Maritime Spatial Planning has led to diplomatic friction with Turkey and Egypt.
- Turkey faces potential obstruction of EU loans from Greece over regional disputes.
- Egypt has formally objected to Greece’s maritime claims, citing overlaps with its EEZ.
- Greece maintains its actions are based on existing agreements and median lines in undelimited areas.
- Greek opposition parties have voiced criticism regarding the government’s transparency and foreign policy approach.
