The statement came after Fidan claimed that cooperation between Greece, Cyprus and Israel “brings more problems” and “leads to war,” in remarks reported by Anadolu.
Greece: Foreign policy is independent
In its response, the Greek Foreign Ministry underlined that Greece conducts its foreign policy independently and remains committed to stability and peace.
“Greece, as a member state of the and , and as an elected member of the , has consistently demonstrated its commitment to stability, good neighbourly relations and peace,” the statement said.
It added that both bilateral cooperation with Israel and trilateral partnerships involving Greece, the Republic of Cyprus and Israel are strictly peaceful in nature and are not directed against any third country.
“Greece shapes its foreign policy independently. It does not accept instructions, nor does it owe explanations to anyone,” the ministry emphasised, warning that alarmist rhetoric and attempts to distort reality are particularly unhelpful during a period of regional instability.
Fidan criticises regional cooperation
Earlier on Sunday, Fidan criticised regional cooperation frameworks involving Greece, Cyprus and Israel, arguing that they increase tensions rather than reduce them.
“Their cooperation does not strengthen trust but increases mistrust. It causes more problems and war,” he said.
The Turkish foreign minister also called for a broader regional security framework based on respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity across the Middle East.
He warned that military solutions to safeguard key global maritime routes would be highly complex, urging diplomacy to ensure uninterrupted trade through the .
Fidan further stressed the importance of keeping international shipping lanes open amid rising tensions in the Gulf, noting that global stability depends on the free flow of maritime trade.
He also suggested that both the United States and Iran appear to recognise the need to de-escalate tensions, while commenting on Israel’s role in the region, claiming it may seek to position Turkey as a new adversary.
The exchange highlights ongoing tensions in the Eastern Mediterranean and wider Middle East, as competing narratives emerge over regional alliances and security frameworks.
Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan Criticizes Greece’s Policies Toward Israel