Turkey has announced the creation of two protected zones in a disputed area of the Aegean Sea, prompting a response from Greece. This development follows a period of improved relations between the two countries after Greece provided aid to Turkey following a devastating earthquake in February 2023. In December 2023, they signed the Athens Declaration on Friendly Relations and Good-Neighbourliness, which aimed to enhance bilateral ties.
Despite this recent calm, longstanding disputes over maritime boundaries remain unresolved. Turkey's designation of two marine parks in the Aegean Sea and eastern Mediterranean earlier this month has reignited tensions. The northeastern Aegean park includes a protected area between the Greek islands of Lemnos and Samothrace, while the southern park is located east of Rhodes and surrounds the Greek island of Kastellorizo.
Greece's Foreign Ministry responded quickly, labeling the establishment of the parks as "illegal" and asserting that the designation of Turkish marine parks in areas outside Turkey's territorial waters lacks legal validity. Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis emphasized the importance of maintaining good relations with neighboring countries but reiterated that Greece's sovereignty is determined by international law and that the country is prepared to defend its territorial claims.
In response to Turkey's actions, Greece announced plans for two marine parks in 2025, located in the Ionian Islands and the southern Cyclades, both within its territorial waters. Turkey previously warned against unilateral actions in the Aegean and Mediterranean seas.
The establishment of these marine parks is viewed by Greece as a challenge to its sovereignty, particularly in light of Turkey's