Germany on Tuesday cautioned Turkey against its "cycle of detente and provocation"&nbsp;in the Eastern Mediterranean.

The warning came after&nbsp;Turkey redeployed&nbsp;a research ship at the centre of tensions with Greece over energy and maritime rights.

"If there should be renewed Turkish gas exploration in the more controversial sea areas in the eastern Mediterranean, this would be a serious setback for efforts to de-escalate," Foreign Minister Heiko Maas said ahead of a trip to Cyprus and Greece.

"Ankara must end the cycle of detente and provocation if the government is interested in talks," said Maas, whose country heads the rotating presidency of the European Union.

The Turkish navy said the Oruc Reis ship will restart activities in the region, including the south of Kastellorizo, until October 22 in a message sent to the maritime alert system NAVTEX late on Sunday.

Meanwhile,&nbsp;Greece refused to hold&nbsp;talks with Turkey on defusing tension in the&nbsp;Mediterranean region unless Ankara withdraws an energy research ship from contested areas.

"(Greece) will not sit at the table for exploratory talks while the Oruc Reis and escorting warships are out there," Minister of State George Gerapetritis told Parapolitika radio.

He said Athens would "emphatically" raise the dispute at a European council meeting starting Thursday.

The deployment of&nbsp;Oruc Reis by Turkey had&nbsp;triggered diplomatic tensions and rival naval manoeuvres in August when it searched for oil and gas deposits, before Turkey pulled it back to shore last month.

Germany on Tuesday cautioned Turkey against its "cycle of detente and provocation" in the Eastern Mediterranean. The warning came after Turkey redeployed a research ship at the centre of tensions with Greece over energy and maritime rights.

Germany on Tuesday cautioned Turkey against its "cycle of detente and provocation" in the Eastern Mediterranean. The warning came after Turkey redeployed a research ship at the centre of tensions with Greece over energy and maritime rights. "If there should be renewed Turkish gas exploration in the more controversial sea areas in the eastern Mediterranean, this would be a serious setback for efforts to de-escalate," Foreign Minister Heiko Maas said ahead of a trip to Cyprus and Greece. "Ankara must end the cycle of detente and provocation if the government is interested in talks," said Maas, whose country heads the rotating presidency of the European Union. The Turkish navy said the Oruc Reis ship will restart activities in the region, including the south of Kastellorizo, until October 22 in a message sent to the maritime alert system NAVTEX late on Sunday. Meanwhile, Greece refused to hold talks with Turkey on defusing tension in the Mediterranean region unless Ankara withdraws an energy research ship from contested areas. "(Greece) will not sit at the table for exploratory talks while the Oruc Reis and escorting warships are out there," Minister of State George Gerapetritis told Parapolitika radio. He said Athens would "emphatically" raise the dispute at a European council meeting starting Thursday. The deployment of Oruc Reis by Turkey had triggered diplomatic tensions and rival naval manoeuvres in August when it searched for oil and gas deposits, before Turkey pulled it back to shore last month.

Mediterranean crisis: Germany warns Turkey against 'provocation'

Greece and Turkey set up a military hotline on Thursday to avoid accidental clashes in the eastern Mediterranean, where they are at loggerheads over energy resources and maritime borders, NATO said.

NATO chief Jens Stoltenberg welcomed the breakthrough, which comes after several weeks of talks between military officials from the two alliance members.

Also see:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/turkey-versus-greece-a-long-history-of-disputes-323392">Turkey versus Greece: A long history of disputes</a>

The two NATO members agreed to the talks after a standoff over gas exploration in contested waters led to a dramatic ramping-up of tensions, stoking fears that conflict could erupt, perhaps by accident.

"Following a series of technical meetings between the military representatives of Greece and Turkey at NATO Headquarters in Brussels, a bilateral military de-confliction mechanism was established on Thursday," NATO said in a statement.&nbsp;

"The mechanism is designed to reduce the risk of incidents and accidents in the Eastern Mediterranean. It includes the creation of a hotline between Greece and Turkey, to facilitate de-confliction at sea or in the air."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/why-greece-turkey-are-fighting-over-hydrocarbons-in-mediterranean-sea-320304">Why Greece, Turkey are fighting over hydrocarbons in Mediterranean Sea</a>

Tensions between Greece and Turkey have eased somewhat in the last couple of weeks and the two governments have agreed to begin exploratory talks to resolve their dispute.

Stoltenberg thanked both sides for their "constructive engagement".

"This safety mechanism can help to create the space for diplomatic efforts to address the underlying dispute and we stand ready to develop it further," Stoltenberg said.

The announcement of the breakthrough came as EU leaders began tough summit talks on their relations with Turkey.

Greece and Turkey set up a military hotline on Thursday to avoid accidental clashes in the eastern Mediterranean, where they are at loggerheads over energy resources and maritime borders, NATO said.

Greece and Turkey set up a military hotline on Thursday to avoid accidental clashes in the eastern Mediterranean, where they are at loggerheads over energy resources and maritime borders, NATO said. NATO chief Jens Stoltenberg welcomed the breakthrough, which comes after several weeks of talks between military officials from the two alliance members. Also see: Turkey versus Greece: A long history of disputes The two NATO members agreed to the talks after a standoff over gas exploration in contested waters led to a dramatic ramping-up of tensions, stoking fears that conflict could erupt, perhaps by accident. "Following a series of technical meetings between the military representatives of Greece and Turkey at NATO Headquarters in Brussels, a bilateral military de-confliction mechanism was established on Thursday," NATO said in a statement. "The mechanism is designed to reduce the risk of incidents and accidents in the Eastern Mediterranean. It includes the creation of a hotline between Greece and Turkey, to facilitate de-confliction at sea or in the air." Also read: Why Greece, Turkey are fighting over hydrocarbons in Mediterranean Sea Tensions between Greece and Turkey have eased somewhat in the last couple of weeks and the two governments have agreed to begin exploratory talks to resolve their dispute. Stoltenberg thanked both sides for their "constructive engagement". "This safety mechanism can help to create the space for diplomatic efforts to address the underlying dispute and we stand ready to develop it further," Stoltenberg said. The announcement of the breakthrough came as EU leaders began tough summit talks on their relations with Turkey.

Greece, Turkey set up hotline to avoid clashes in Eastern Mediterranean, says NATO

US&nbsp;Secretary of State Mike Pompeo requested NATO allies Greece and&nbsp;Turkey&nbsp;to resolve Mediterranean row and said&nbsp;his country will use its&nbsp;diplomatic and military influence in the region to try to ease a volatile dispute&nbsp;over energy rights.

Rival claims to potentially resource-rich territory under the Mediterranean should be resolved "peacefully in accordance with international law", said Pompeo and Greek counterpart Nikos Dendias in a joint statement after holding talks in Thessaloniki.

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Always fantastic to see Greek Foreign Minister <a href="https://twitter.com/NikosDendias?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@nikosdendias</a>. Today in Thessaloniki, we discussed the enduring strength of the U.S.-Greece relationship, the Western Balkans, and de-escalation of tensions in the Eastern Mediterranean. <a href="https://t.co/lKVV3yJjxN">pic.twitter.com/lKVV3yJjxN</a>
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Relations between Greece and neighboring Turkey deteriorated sharply this year over disputed maritime boundaries and exploration rights in the eastern Mediterranean.

The two countries&nbsp;have spent weeks at loggerheads after Ankara sent exploration vessels into disputed waters, roping in other European powers and raising concern about a wider escalation.

Turkey has also angered Greece by repeatedly casting doubt on postwar treaties setting out the status quo in the Aegean and eastern Mediterranean.

But last week Athens and Ankara said they were ready to start talks.

"Let's meet, let's talk and let's seek a mutually acceptable solution. Let's give diplomacy a chance," Greek PM Kyriakos Mitsotakis said on Friday to Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, in an address to the virtual UN General Assembly.

Pompeo, on a two-day visit to Greece, said in the joint statement that the US "welcomed Greece's confirmed readiness to engage with other countries in the region to achieve maritime delimitation agreements".

It is the first time a US secretary of State visits Thessaloniki, seen as a gateway to investment and trade in the Balkans.

Pompeo&nbsp;signed&nbsp;a bilateral science and technology agreement while in Greece, which seeks to become an energy hub in the Balkans, and meet with business leaders in the energy sector.

On Tuesday Pompeo will hold talks with Mitsotakis at Souda military base, a NATO and Greek naval base, on the island of Crete.

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo requested NATO allies Greece and Turkey to resolve Mediterranean row and said his country will use its diplomatic and military influence in the region to try to ease a volatile dispute over energy rights.

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo requested NATO allies Greece and Turkey to resolve Mediterranean row and said his country will use its diplomatic and military influence in the region to try to ease a volatile dispute over energy rights. Rival claims to potentially resource-rich territory under the Mediterranean should be resolved "peacefully in accordance with international law", said Pompeo and Greek counterpart Nikos Dendias in a joint statement after holding talks in Thessaloniki. Always fantastic to see Greek Foreign Minister @nikosdendias. Today in Thessaloniki, we discussed the enduring strength of the U.S.-Greece relationship, the Western Balkans, and de-escalation of tensions in the Eastern Mediterranean. pic.twitter.com/lKVV3yJjxN — Secretary Pompeo (@SecPompeo) September 28, 2020 × Relations between Greece and neighboring Turkey deteriorated sharply this year over disputed maritime boundaries and exploration rights in the eastern Mediterranean. The two countries have spent weeks at loggerheads after Ankara sent exploration vessels into disputed waters, roping in other European powers and raising concern about a wider escalation. Turkey has also angered Greece by repeatedly casting doubt on postwar treaties setting out the status quo in the Aegean and eastern Mediterranean. But last week Athens and Ankara said they were ready to start talks. "Let's meet, let's talk and let's seek a mutually acceptable solution. Let's give diplomacy a chance," Greek PM Kyriakos Mitsotakis said on Friday to Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, in an address to the virtual UN General Assembly. Pompeo, on a two-day visit to Greece, said in the joint statement that the US "welcomed Greece's confirmed readiness to engage with other countries in the region to achieve maritime delimitation agreements". It is the first time a US secretary of State visits Thessaloniki, seen as a gateway to investment and trade in the Balkans. Pompeo signed a bilateral science and technology agreement while in Greece, which seeks to become an energy hub in the Balkans, and meet with business leaders in the energy sector. On Tuesday Pompeo will hold talks with Mitsotakis at Souda military base, a NATO and Greek naval base, on the island of Crete.

Pompeo urges Greece, Turkey to resolve Mediterranean row; pledges support

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, who is vying for the leadership of Islamic nations, brought up the Kashmir yet again at the United Nations General Assembly&nbsp;on Tuesday.

During his address, he said, "the Kashmir conflict which is also key to the stability and peace of South Asia is still a burning issue."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-takes-strong-exception-to-turkish-president-erdogans-comments-on-kashmir-280785">India takes strong exception to Turkish President Erdogan's comments on Kashmir&nbsp;</a>

"We are in favour of solving this issue through dialogue within the framework of the United Nations resolutions, especially in line with the expectations of the people of Kashmir," he added.

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The prime Security Council directive on Kashmir, Resolution 47, called for Pakistan to remove its troops and personnel from the region as the first step and a pre-condition for a referendum. 
 
Islamabad has rejected it and continued its occupation allowing for India to settle the matter through elections in Kashmir. 
 
Erdogan avoided naming India directly, while he had named countries in many of the conflicts from Azerbaijan to Armenia that he spoke about.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/news-update-breaking-Turkey-President-Erdogan-rakes-up-Kashmir-issue-in-Pakistan-Parliament">Turkey President Erdogan rakes up Kashmir issue in Pakistan Parliament</a>

At last year's high-level meeting of the General Assembly, only Erdogan and Mahatir Mohammed, the then-Prime Minister of Malaysia, joined Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan to talk about Kashmir. 
 
While he condemned terrorism in other parts of the world, Erdogan was silent on the terrorism directed against India. 
 
In his attempt to challenge the Saudi leadership of the Islamic nations, he criticised attempts to bring about reconciliation with Israel, but did not directly mention the United Arab Emirates and Bahrain, which recently set up diplomatic resolution with Israel, with the apparent approval of Riyadh. 
 
"Participation of some countries of the region in this game does not mean anything beyond serving Israel`s efforts to erode basic international parameters," Erdogan said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/why-greece-turkey-are-fighting-over-hydrocarbons-in-mediterranean-sea-320304">Why Greece, Turkey are fighting over hydrocarbons in Mediterranean Sea</a>

Erdogan also called for "sincere" dialogue to settle the growing row with Greece over Ankara's energy search in the eastern Mediterranean,&nbsp;rejecting "harassment".

NATO members Turkey and Greece have been at odds over rights to potential hydrocarbon resources in the eastern Mediterranean and the extent of their continental shelves.

Earlier, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres&nbsp;kicked off the six-day General Debate.&nbsp;

Despite this year's United Nations General Assembly General Debate being a mostly virtual event, there was a heavy presence of New York City Police officers in front of the UN&nbsp;building.

The annual meeting of world leaders at the United Nations,&nbsp;started&nbsp;on Tuesday&nbsp;with no presidents or prime ministers physically present in New York, because of the world-wide coronavirus pandemic. All statements have been pre-recorded and will be broadcast in the General Assembly hall.

The United Nations was created when countries came together after World War II to prevent conflict.

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, who is vying for the leadership of Islamic nations, brought up the Kashmir yet again at the United Nations General Assembly on Tuesday.

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, who is vying for the leadership of Islamic nations, brought up the Kashmir yet again at the United Nations General Assembly on Tuesday. During his address, he said, "the Kashmir conflict which is also key to the stability and peace of South Asia is still a burning issue." Also read: India takes strong exception to Turkish President Erdogan's comments on Kashmir "We are in favour of solving this issue through dialogue within the framework of the United Nations resolutions, especially in line with the expectations of the people of Kashmir," he added. The prime Security Council directive on Kashmir, Resolution 47, called for Pakistan to remove its troops and personnel from the region as the first step and a pre-condition for a referendum. Islamabad has rejected it and continued its occupation allowing for India to settle the matter through elections in Kashmir. Erdogan avoided naming India directly, while he had named countries in many of the conflicts from Azerbaijan to Armenia that he spoke about. Also read: Turkey President Erdogan rakes up Kashmir issue in Pakistan Parliament At last year's high-level meeting of the General Assembly, only Erdogan and Mahatir Mohammed, the then-Prime Minister of Malaysia, joined Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan to talk about Kashmir. While he condemned terrorism in other parts of the world, Erdogan was silent on the terrorism directed against India. In his attempt to challenge the Saudi leadership of the Islamic nations, he criticised attempts to bring about reconciliation with Israel, but did not directly mention the United Arab Emirates and Bahrain, which recently set up diplomatic resolution with Israel, with the apparent approval of Riyadh. "Participation of some countries of the region in this game does not mean anything beyond serving Israel`s efforts to erode basic international parameters," Erdogan said. Also read: Why Greece, Turkey are fighting over hydrocarbons in Mediterranean Sea Erdogan also called for "sincere" dialogue to settle the growing row with Greece over Ankara's energy search in the eastern Mediterranean, rejecting "harassment". NATO members Turkey and Greece have been at odds over rights to potential hydrocarbon resources in the eastern Mediterranean and the extent of their continental shelves. Earlier, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres kicked off the six-day General Debate. Despite this year's United Nations General Assembly General Debate being a mostly virtual event, there was a heavy presence of New York City Police officers in front of the UN building. The annual meeting of world leaders at the United Nations, started on Tuesday with no presidents or prime ministers physically present in New York, because of the world-wide coronavirus pandemic. All statements have been pre-recorded and will be broadcast in the General Assembly hall. The United Nations was created when countries came together after World War II to prevent conflict.

UNGA 2020: Erdogan calls Kashmir conflict a 'burning issue'

Greece is close to resuming talks with Turkey over maritime zones, government spokesman Stelios Petsas said on Monday, after Ankara this month recalled an oil and gas exploration vessel from disputed Mediterranean waters in a move welcomed by Athens.

NATO members Turkey and Greece bitterly disagree over maritime jurisdiction and energy exploration rights in the eastern Mediterranean, based on conflicting views about the extent of their continental shelves.

Turkey infuriated Greece last month when it sent the Oruc Reis seismic survey vessel to the area. Ankara says the boat has now been recalled for routine maintenance.

"We're close to resuming exploratory talks, but how soon this will happen depends on both sides, on Greece and Turkey. The sentiment is good," Petsas told reporters, adding that Ankara had also indicated its wish for a resumption of talks.

The long-running discussions between Athens and Ankara on demarcating their maritime zones broke down in 2016. Greek media say they could resume as early as this week.

Greece and its close ally Cyprus, both European Union member states, are locked in a dispute with Turkey over overlapping claims to areas believed to be rich in natural gas.

EU leaders are expected to evaluate the situation at a summit on Sept 24-25, though member states are divided over how best to proceed.

EU foreign ministers also discussed the issue at a meeting on Monday and agreed that Turkey's move to recall Oruc Reis was a first, positive step, Greek Foreign Minister Nikos Dendias said after the meeting. He added that the EU wanted Turkey to make more efforts to show it respected international law.

Turkey's presidential spokesman said on Sunday that exploratory talks could resume but that threats of EU sanctions were not helpful.

Cyprus has pressed for sanctions against Turkey, angered by Ankara's move last week to extend the operations of two vessels in Mediterranean waters off Cyprus until mid-October.,

But, underscoring Greece's milder tone following the withdrawal of the Oruc Reis, Petsas said on Monday the EU should examine ways to activate sanctions only if Turkey does not stick to its recent stance of de-escalation in the east Mediterranean.

US&nbsp;Secretary of State Mike Pompeo is also due to visit Greece this month. He has said the United States is "deeply concerned" about Turkey's actions in the eastern Mediterrean and has urged a diplomatic end to the crisis.

Greece is close to resuming talks with Turkey over maritime zones, government spokesman Stelios Petsas said on Monday, after Ankara this month recalled an oil and gas exploration vessel from disputed Mediterranean waters in a move welcomed by Athens.

Greece is close to resuming talks with Turkey over maritime zones, government spokesman Stelios Petsas said on Monday, after Ankara this month recalled an oil and gas exploration vessel from disputed Mediterranean waters in a move welcomed by Athens. NATO members Turkey and Greece bitterly disagree over maritime jurisdiction and energy exploration rights in the eastern Mediterranean, based on conflicting views about the extent of their continental shelves. Turkey infuriated Greece last month when it sent the Oruc Reis seismic survey vessel to the area. Ankara says the boat has now been recalled for routine maintenance. "We're close to resuming exploratory talks, but how soon this will happen depends on both sides, on Greece and Turkey. The sentiment is good," Petsas told reporters, adding that Ankara had also indicated its wish for a resumption of talks. The long-running discussions between Athens and Ankara on demarcating their maritime zones broke down in 2016. Greek media say they could resume as early as this week. Greece and its close ally Cyprus, both European Union member states, are locked in a dispute with Turkey over overlapping claims to areas believed to be rich in natural gas. EU leaders are expected to evaluate the situation at a summit on Sept 24-25, though member states are divided over how best to proceed. EU foreign ministers also discussed the issue at a meeting on Monday and agreed that Turkey's move to recall Oruc Reis was a first, positive step, Greek Foreign Minister Nikos Dendias said after the meeting. He added that the EU wanted Turkey to make more efforts to show it respected international law. Turkey's presidential spokesman said on Sunday that exploratory talks could resume but that threats of EU sanctions were not helpful. Cyprus has pressed for sanctions against Turkey, angered by Ankara's move last week to extend the operations of two vessels in Mediterranean waters off Cyprus until mid-October., But, underscoring Greece's milder tone following the withdrawal of the Oruc Reis, Petsas said on Monday the EU should examine ways to activate sanctions only if Turkey does not stick to its recent stance of de-escalation in the east Mediterranean. US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo is also due to visit Greece this month. He has said the United States is "deeply concerned" about Turkey's actions in the eastern Mediterrean and has urged a diplomatic end to the crisis.

Greece says it's close to resuming maritime talks with Turkey

President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Friday said Turkey was ready to meet with Greece to resolve its standoff over energy exploration in contested waters in the eastern Mediterranean.

Turkey has recalled an oil and gas exploration vessel from the region&nbsp;to allow for diplomacy with Greece as per the Turkish president.

The search for gas and oil in the region has sparked a row that has seen the two NATO neighbours stage rival air and navy drills in strategic waters between Cyprus and the Greek island of Crete.&nbsp;

Also see:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/turkey-versus-greece-a-long-history-of-disputes-323392">Turkey versus Greece: A long history of disputes</a>

"Could there be a meeting with Greek Prime Minister (Kyriakos) Mitsotakis? What's essential is what we discuss and in what framework," Erdogan told reporters in Istanbul after Friday prayers.&nbsp;

"We can meet if there is goodwill. We can talk via videoconference or meet in a third country," Erdogan said, adding that Turkey would not be the party fleeing the table.

At the centre of the row was Turkey's deployment last month of a seismic research vessel, the Oruc Reis, and an accompanying fleet of warships in disputed waters near the Greek island of Kastellorizo.&nbsp;

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/war-of-words-erdogan-lashes-out-at-incapable-macron-328242" hreflang="en">War of words: Erdogan lashes out at 'incapable' Macron</a>

Turkish officials ended the month-long mission and ordered the vessel back to shore last weekend for maintanance and replenishment.&nbsp;

Erdogan also signalled that Oruc Reis would return to its work, while also saying that its withdrawal was deliberate.

"If we pulled Oruc Reis back to the port for maintenance, it has a meaning," he said.&nbsp;"It means 'let's give a chance to diplomacy, let's show a positive approach'."

Turkey's Yavuz drillship, meanwhile, will continue it search for oil and gas off Cyprus until October 12 despite international calls to withdraw.

Ankara's dispute with Athens has sparked a crisis that has drawn in some EU member states, particularly France which sent vessels and fighter jets to the region in support of Greece.

EU leaders are due to discuss possible sanctions against Ankara at their meeting on September 24-25.

President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Friday said Turkey was ready to meet with Greece to resolve its standoff over energy exploration in contested waters in the eastern Mediterranean.

President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Friday said Turkey was ready to meet with Greece to resolve its standoff over energy exploration in contested waters in the eastern Mediterranean. Turkey has recalled an oil and gas exploration vessel from the region to allow for diplomacy with Greece as per the Turkish president. The search for gas and oil in the region has sparked a row that has seen the two NATO neighbours stage rival air and navy drills in strategic waters between Cyprus and the Greek island of Crete. Also see: Turkey versus Greece: A long history of disputes "Could there be a meeting with Greek Prime Minister (Kyriakos) Mitsotakis? What's essential is what we discuss and in what framework," Erdogan told reporters in Istanbul after Friday prayers. "We can meet if there is goodwill. We can talk via videoconference or meet in a third country," Erdogan said, adding that Turkey would not be the party fleeing the table. At the centre of the row was Turkey's deployment last month of a seismic research vessel, the Oruc Reis, and an accompanying fleet of warships in disputed waters near the Greek island of Kastellorizo. Also read| War of words: Erdogan lashes out at 'incapable' Macron Turkish officials ended the month-long mission and ordered the vessel back to shore last weekend for maintanance and replenishment. Erdogan also signalled that Oruc Reis would return to its work, while also saying that its withdrawal was deliberate. "If we pulled Oruc Reis back to the port for maintenance, it has a meaning," he said. "It means 'let's give a chance to diplomacy, let's show a positive approach'." Turkey's Yavuz drillship, meanwhile, will continue it search for oil and gas off Cyprus until October 12 despite international calls to withdraw. Ankara's dispute with Athens has sparked a crisis that has drawn in some EU member states, particularly France which sent vessels and fighter jets to the region in support of Greece. EU leaders are due to discuss possible sanctions against Ankara at their meeting on September 24-25.

Mediterranean crisis: Erdogan says Turkey willing to meet Greek Prime Minister

Greece will be bolstering its military with new armament programmes, a boost to military personnel and the development of the country's defence industry, the government spokesman said Monday, as a tense stand-off with neighbouring Turkey has led to concerns of open conflict between the two NATO allies.

Ankara is currently facing off against Greece and Cyprus over oil and gas exploration rights in the eastern Mediterranean. Greece and Turkey have deployed naval and air forces to assert their competing claims in the region.

Also see:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/turkey-versus-greece-a-long-history-of-disputes-323392">Turkey versus Greece: A long history of disputes</a>

''The Turkish leadership is unleashing, on a near daily basis, threats of war and makes provocative statements against Greece,'' Greek government spokesman Stelios Petsas said.

''We respond with political, diplomatic and operational readiness, determined to do whatever is necessary to protect our sovereign rights.''

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/now-turkey-stages-military-exercises-in-eastern-mediterranean-amid-tensions-with-greece-323929">Now, Turkey stages military exercises in eastern Mediterranean amid tensions with Greece</a>

Petsas said Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis would be announcing details of plans to upgrade the country's military, during his annual state of the economy speech on Saturday.

''We are in contact with friendly countries in order to reinforce the equipment of our armed forces,''&nbsp;Petsas said. Last week, Greece raised 2.5 billion euros (USD 2.96 billion) in a bond auction as the country seeks to increase military spending and raise funds for businesses affected by the coronavirus pandemic.

Greek media have reported the purchases may include French-made Rafale fighter jets and at least one French frigate. Petsas said Mitsotakis would be meeting with French President Emmanuel Macron on Thursday on the sidelines of a meeting in Corsica of European Union Mediterranean countries.

Last Saturday, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan warned Greece to enter talks over disputed eastern Mediterranean territorial claims or face the consequences.

''They're either going to understand the language of politics and diplomacy, or in the field with painful experiences,''&nbsp;he said. 
Greece and Turkey have come to the brink of war three times since the mid-1970s, including once over exploration rights in the Aegean Sea.

The current dispute escalated when Turkey sent seismic research vessel Oruc Reis, accompanied by warships, to prospect for oil and gas reserves in an area between Cyprus and the Greek island of Crete that Athens claims as its own continental shelf. 
Greece sent its own warships to the area and put its armed forces on alert.

Greece will be bolstering its military with new armament programmes, a boost to military personnel and the development of the country's defence industry, the government spokesman said Monday, as a tense stand-off with neighbouring Turkey has led to concerns of open conflict between the two NATO allies.

Greece will be bolstering its military with new armament programmes, a boost to military personnel and the development of the country's defence industry, the government spokesman said Monday, as a tense stand-off with neighbouring Turkey has led to concerns of open conflict between the two NATO allies. Ankara is currently facing off against Greece and Cyprus over oil and gas exploration rights in the eastern Mediterranean. Greece and Turkey have deployed naval and air forces to assert their competing claims in the region. Also see: Turkey versus Greece: A long history of disputes ''The Turkish leadership is unleashing, on a near daily basis, threats of war and makes provocative statements against Greece,'' Greek government spokesman Stelios Petsas said. ''We respond with political, diplomatic and operational readiness, determined to do whatever is necessary to protect our sovereign rights.'' Also read: Now, Turkey stages military exercises in eastern Mediterranean amid tensions with Greece Petsas said Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis would be announcing details of plans to upgrade the country's military, during his annual state of the economy speech on Saturday. ''We are in contact with friendly countries in order to reinforce the equipment of our armed forces,'' Petsas said. Last week, Greece raised 2.5 billion euros (USD 2.96 billion) in a bond auction as the country seeks to increase military spending and raise funds for businesses affected by the coronavirus pandemic. Greek media have reported the purchases may include French-made Rafale fighter jets and at least one French frigate. Petsas said Mitsotakis would be meeting with French President Emmanuel Macron on Thursday on the sidelines of a meeting in Corsica of European Union Mediterranean countries. Last Saturday, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan warned Greece to enter talks over disputed eastern Mediterranean territorial claims or face the consequences. ''They're either going to understand the language of politics and diplomacy, or in the field with painful experiences,'' he said. Greece and Turkey have come to the brink of war three times since the mid-1970s, including once over exploration rights in the Aegean Sea. The current dispute escalated when Turkey sent seismic research vessel Oruc Reis, accompanied by warships, to prospect for oil and gas reserves in an area between Cyprus and the Greek island of Crete that Athens claims as its own continental shelf. Greece sent its own warships to the area and put its armed forces on alert.

Mediterranean crisis: Greece to boost military amid tension with Turkey

NATO said Thursday that Greece and Turkey had agreed to talks to ease their dispute over eastern Mediterranean borders and energy rights, but Athens swiftly denied any deal on negotiations.

Alliance chief Jens Stoltenberg said he had won the two neighbours' agreement to enter "technical talks" designed to avert accident between their navies that could trigger a broader conflict.

A Greek frigate collided with a Turkish frigate in August and the two NATO members staged rival war games in the energy-rich but disputed region last week.

Also see:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/turkey-versus-greece-a-long-history-of-disputes-323392">Turkey versus Greece: A long history of disputes</a>

"Following my discussions with Greek and Turkish leaders, the two allies have agreed to enter into technical talks at NATO to establish mechanisms for military de-confliction to reduce the risk of incidents and accidents in the eastern Mediterranean," Stoltenberg said in a statement.

"Greece and Turkey are valued allies, and NATO is an important platform for consultations on all issues that affect our shared security."

But later Thursday Greece denied it had agreed to hold NATO-brokered talks with Turkey.

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"Published information claiming Greece and Turkey have agreed to hold so-called 'technical talks' on de-escalating tensions in the eastern Mediterranean do not correspond to reality," Greece's foreign ministry said.

"De-escalation will only take place with the immediate withdrawal of all Turkish vessels from the Greek continental shelf," the ministry added.

Also see:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/now-turkey-stages-military-exercises-in-eastern-mediterranean-amid-tensions-with-greece-323929">Now, Turkey stages military exercises in eastern Mediterranean amid tensions with Greece</a>

Turkey ready for talks

Ankara said it backed the idea of talks at NATO.

"This initiative is supported by our country," the Turkish foreign ministry said in a statement. "We expect Greece to support the NATO secretary general's initiative."

The Turkish statement stressed that the talks would only focus on avoiding accidents and not resolving the sides' differences over maritime borders and energy exploration rights.

But observers still hope the talks will create an opening for further dialogue in a conflict that threatens to impede Europe's future access to a wealth of natural gas reserves.

NATO's announcement came after US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo urged the sides to reduce tensions and open diplomatic channels to ease the crisis.

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan this week extended a gas exploration mission near a Greek island at the epicentre of the longstanding rivals' latest dispute.

Erdogan on Tuesday vowed not to be intimidated by Greece's support from European military powers such as France.

The European Union has been watching the row with growing unease.

Germany had been spearheading efforts to get the sides to temper the rhetoric and settle their differences through talks.

The Turkish presidency said Erdogan held video conference talks with German Chancellor Angela Merkel on Thursday in which he condemned "the support given to Greece’s selfish and unfair stance by some countries".

The EU threatened to put sanctions on Turkey if it refuses to solve the dispute through dialogue.

NATO said Thursday that Greece and Turkey had agreed to talks to ease their dispute over eastern Mediterranean borders and energy rights, but Athens swiftly denied any deal on negotiations.

NATO said Thursday that Greece and Turkey had agreed to talks to ease their dispute over eastern Mediterranean borders and energy rights, but Athens swiftly denied any deal on negotiations. Alliance chief Jens Stoltenberg said he had won the two neighbours' agreement to enter "technical talks" designed to avert accident between their navies that could trigger a broader conflict. A Greek frigate collided with a Turkish frigate in August and the two NATO members staged rival war games in the energy-rich but disputed region last week. Also see: Turkey versus Greece: A long history of disputes "Following my discussions with Greek and Turkish leaders, the two allies have agreed to enter into technical talks at NATO to establish mechanisms for military de-confliction to reduce the risk of incidents and accidents in the eastern Mediterranean," Stoltenberg said in a statement. "Greece and Turkey are valued allies, and NATO is an important platform for consultations on all issues that affect our shared security." But later Thursday Greece denied it had agreed to hold NATO-brokered talks with Turkey. "Published information claiming Greece and Turkey have agreed to hold so-called 'technical talks' on de-escalating tensions in the eastern Mediterranean do not correspond to reality," Greece's foreign ministry said. "De-escalation will only take place with the immediate withdrawal of all Turkish vessels from the Greek continental shelf," the ministry added. Also see: Now, Turkey stages military exercises in eastern Mediterranean amid tensions with Greece Turkey ready for talks Ankara said it backed the idea of talks at NATO. "This initiative is supported by our country," the Turkish foreign ministry said in a statement. "We expect Greece to support the NATO secretary general's initiative." The Turkish statement stressed that the talks would only focus on avoiding accidents and not resolving the sides' differences over maritime borders and energy exploration rights. But observers still hope the talks will create an opening for further dialogue in a conflict that threatens to impede Europe's future access to a wealth of natural gas reserves. NATO's announcement came after US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo urged the sides to reduce tensions and open diplomatic channels to ease the crisis. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan this week extended a gas exploration mission near a Greek island at the epicentre of the longstanding rivals' latest dispute. Erdogan on Tuesday vowed not to be intimidated by Greece's support from European military powers such as France. The European Union has been watching the row with growing unease. Germany had been spearheading efforts to get the sides to temper the rhetoric and settle their differences through talks. The Turkish presidency said Erdogan held video conference talks with German Chancellor Angela Merkel on Thursday in which he condemned "the support given to Greece’s selfish and unfair stance by some countries". The EU threatened to put sanctions on Turkey if it refuses to solve the dispute through dialogue.

Mediterranean crisis: Greece, Turkey agree de-escalation talks says NATO

The EU on Friday warned Turkey it could face fresh sanctions,&nbsp;including tough economic measures,&nbsp;unless progress is made in reducing soaring tensions with Greece and Cyprus in the eastern Mediterranean.

EU diplomatic chief Josep Borrell said the bloc wanted to give "a serious chance to dialogue" but was steadfast in its support for member states Greece and Cyprus in the crisis, which has raised fears of a military standoff.

A dispute over maritime borders and gas drilling rights has reignited the long-running rivalry between Athens and Ankara, with the two neighbours staging rival naval drills.

Also see:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/turkey-versus-greece-a-long-history-of-disputes-323392">Turkey versus Greece: A long history of disputes</a>

EU foreign ministers meeting for talks in Berlin agreed to a request from Cyprus to sanction more individuals for their role in Turkey's exploratory drilling in waters claimed by the island.

Borrell urged Ankara to "abstain from unilateral actions" as a basic condition to allow dialogue,&nbsp;which Germany is trying to broker,&nbsp;to advance.

"We agreed that in the absence of progress in engaging Turkey we could develop a list of further restrictive measures that could be discussed at the European Council on September 24 and 25," Borrell said after the talks.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo">Asked what these measures might entail, Borrell said sanctions could be extended to ships or other assets involved in the drilling, as well as prohibiting the use of EU ports and supplies and restricting "economic and financial infrastructure related with this activity".</div>

Wide-ranging sanctions against whole sectors of the Turkish economy could also be considered, he said, but indicated these might only come into play if more targeted measures against the drilling were not effective.&nbsp;

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Athens welcomed Friday's developments. "I think the Greek side has got what it could, that is, possible sanctions if Turkey does not choose de-escalation and does not return to dialogue," Foreign Minister Nikos Dendias told Greek media.

"I hope that Turkey will come to its senses, stop the provocations, stop the arbitrary actions and stop violating international law."

But there was anger from Turkey, which said the EU's "unconditional" support for what it called Greece and Cyprus's "maximalist" positions ignored Ankara's legitimate claims and was itself a source of tension.

"As Turkey each time emphasises dialogue and diplomacy, the EU's recourse to the language of sanctions will not help solve the resolution of existing problems and will in fact push our country's determination further," Turkish Foreign Ministry Spokesman Hami Aksoy said in a statement.

"If the EU wants to find a solution in the eastern Mediterranean, they should act without bias and should be an honest mediator."

The crisis splits members of the NATO alliance and in a phone call with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Friday alliance chief Jens Stoltenberg stressed "dialogue and de-escalation", a tweet said.

The Turkish presidency said Erdogan told Stolteberg that "NATO should fulfill its responsibility against unilateral steps that disregard international law and harms regional peace."

The EU on Friday warned Turkey it could face fresh sanctions, including tough economic measures, unless progress is made in reducing soaring tensions with Greece and Cyprus in the eastern Mediterranean.

The EU on Friday warned Turkey it could face fresh sanctions, including tough economic measures, unless progress is made in reducing soaring tensions with Greece and Cyprus in the eastern Mediterranean. EU diplomatic chief Josep Borrell said the bloc wanted to give "a serious chance to dialogue" but was steadfast in its support for member states Greece and Cyprus in the crisis, which has raised fears of a military standoff. A dispute over maritime borders and gas drilling rights has reignited the long-running rivalry between Athens and Ankara, with the two neighbours staging rival naval drills. Also see: Turkey versus Greece: A long history of disputes EU foreign ministers meeting for talks in Berlin agreed to a request from Cyprus to sanction more individuals for their role in Turkey's exploratory drilling in waters claimed by the island. Borrell urged Ankara to "abstain from unilateral actions" as a basic condition to allow dialogue, which Germany is trying to broker, to advance. "We agreed that in the absence of progress in engaging Turkey we could develop a list of further restrictive measures that could be discussed at the European Council on September 24 and 25," Borrell said after the talks. Asked what these measures might entail, Borrell said sanctions could be extended to ships or other assets involved in the drilling, as well as prohibiting the use of EU ports and supplies and restricting "economic and financial infrastructure related with this activity". Wide-ranging sanctions against whole sectors of the Turkish economy could also be considered, he said, but indicated these might only come into play if more targeted measures against the drilling were not effective. Athens welcomed Friday's developments. "I think the Greek side has got what it could, that is, possible sanctions if Turkey does not choose de-escalation and does not return to dialogue," Foreign Minister Nikos Dendias told Greek media. "I hope that Turkey will come to its senses, stop the provocations, stop the arbitrary actions and stop violating international law." But there was anger from Turkey, which said the EU's "unconditional" support for what it called Greece and Cyprus's "maximalist" positions ignored Ankara's legitimate claims and was itself a source of tension. "As Turkey each time emphasises dialogue and diplomacy, the EU's recourse to the language of sanctions will not help solve the resolution of existing problems and will in fact push our country's determination further," Turkish Foreign Ministry Spokesman Hami Aksoy said in a statement. "If the EU wants to find a solution in the eastern Mediterranean, they should act without bias and should be an honest mediator." The crisis splits members of the NATO alliance and in a phone call with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Friday alliance chief Jens Stoltenberg stressed "dialogue and de-escalation", a tweet said. The Turkish presidency said Erdogan told Stolteberg that "NATO should fulfill its responsibility against unilateral steps that disregard international law and harms regional peace."

Mediterranean crisis: European Union warns Turkey of imposing fresh sanctions

A refugee rescue vessel funded by British street artist Banksy called for urgent help late Friday after lending assistance to a boat in the Mediterranean that was carrying at least one dead migrant.

The boat, named 'Louise Michel' after the 19th-century&nbsp;French feminist anarchist, said it was "reaching the State of Emergency" after encountering the boat 130 people as they attempted to cross the expanse dividing Europe and Africa.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/street-artist-banksy-pays-tribute-to-uks-health-service-297136">Street artist Banksy pays tribute to UK's health service</a>

"There is already one dead person on the boat. We need immediate assistance," the crew of the 31-meter&nbsp;Louise Michel wrote on Twitter, saying other migrants had fuel burns and had been at sea for days.

It has been operational since last week. On Thursday it rescued 89 people, including 14 women and four children, from a rubber boat in distress, the group said on its website.

<img alt="Banksy " data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="770b29c9-57b7-4d51-adb4-52adfdf62c3c" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/banksy-refugee-rescue-boat-00.jpg" />

In picture: Migrants rescued by the Louise Michel in the Mediterranean Sea

A former French Navy boat daubed in pink and white, the 30-meter long Louise Michel was bought with proceeds from the sale of&nbsp;Banksy&nbsp;artwork, the group said. The side of the vessel's cabin features an artwork of a girl holding a heart-shaped life buoy in his familiar stencilled style.

The boat was around 90 kilometres southeast of the Italian island of Lampedusa early on Saturday, according to the global ship tracking website Marine Traffic.

Thousands of people are thought to have died making the dangerous crossing across the Mediterranean to flee conflict, repression and poverty in Africa and the Middle East.&nbsp;

Banksy's decision to fund the high-speed boat follows a body of work by the artist that has levelled scathing judgements on Europe's halting response to the migrant crisis.

Painted in hot pink and white, the Louise Michel features a Banksy artwork depicting a girl in a life vest holding a heart-shaped safety buoy.&nbsp;

Early this month, humanitarian organisations said they would resume migrant rescues in the Mediterranean Sea where none have operated since the Ocean Viking docked in Italy in early July.

Before the Ocean Viking's last mission, rescue operations in the Mediterranean had been suspended for months due to the global coronavirus pandemic.

More than 100,000 migrants tried to cross the Mediterranean last year from north Africa with more than 1,200 dying in the attempt, according to the International Organization for Migration.

A refugee rescue vessel funded by British street artist Banksy called for urgent help late Friday after lending assistance to a boat in the Mediterranean that was carrying at least one dead migrant.

A refugee rescue vessel funded by British street artist Banksy called for urgent help late Friday after lending assistance to a boat in the Mediterranean that was carrying at least one dead migrant. The boat, named 'Louise Michel' after the 19th-century French feminist anarchist, said it was "reaching the State of Emergency" after encountering the boat 130 people as they attempted to cross the expanse dividing Europe and Africa. Also read: Street artist Banksy pays tribute to UK's health service "There is already one dead person on the boat. We need immediate assistance," the crew of the 31-meter Louise Michel wrote on Twitter, saying other migrants had fuel burns and had been at sea for days. It has been operational since last week. On Thursday it rescued 89 people, including 14 women and four children, from a rubber boat in distress, the group said on its website. In picture: Migrants rescued by the Louise Michel in the Mediterranean Sea A former French Navy boat daubed in pink and white, the 30-meter long Louise Michel was bought with proceeds from the sale of Banksy artwork, the group said. The side of the vessel's cabin features an artwork of a girl holding a heart-shaped life buoy in his familiar stencilled style. The boat was around 90 kilometres southeast of the Italian island of Lampedusa early on Saturday, according to the global ship tracking website Marine Traffic. Thousands of people are thought to have died making the dangerous crossing across the Mediterranean to flee conflict, repression and poverty in Africa and the Middle East. Banksy's decision to fund the high-speed boat follows a body of work by the artist that has levelled scathing judgements on Europe's halting response to the migrant crisis. Painted in hot pink and white, the Louise Michel features a Banksy artwork depicting a girl in a life vest holding a heart-shaped safety buoy. Early this month, humanitarian organisations said they would resume migrant rescues in the Mediterranean Sea where none have operated since the Ocean Viking docked in Italy in early July. Before the Ocean Viking's last mission, rescue operations in the Mediterranean had been suspended for months due to the global coronavirus pandemic. More than 100,000 migrants tried to cross the Mediterranean last year from north Africa with more than 1,200 dying in the attempt, according to the International Organization for Migration.

Banksy-funded Mediterranean rescue boat calls for urgent assistance

Athens is ready for a "significant de-escalation" in the Eastern Mediterranean provided Turkey halts its "provocative actions", Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis said Wednesday.

Mitsotakis made the comments during a phone call with US President Donald Trump, as the row between the two neighbours over gas and maritime borders ratcheted up another notch.

Earlier,&nbsp;Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu had said&nbsp;Turkey was ready for talks with Greece&nbsp;without any preconditions.

"We are in favour of negotiations for fair sharing but nobody should lay down preconditions. This cannot happen with preconditions laid down by Greece."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mediterranean-row-turkey-says-ready-for-talks-with-greece-without-preconditions-323121">Mediterranean row: Turkey says ready for talks with Greece without 'preconditions'</a>

Greece and its EU allies held war games in the Mediterranean Wednesday while Turkey conducted drills with the US navy nearby, as the row between the two neighbours over gas and maritime borders ratcheted up another notch.

The convergence of a growing number of warships on an energy-rich but disputed patch of sea between Cyprus and Crete came as NATO and a host of European officials called for cooler heads to prevail.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/turkey-says-conducted-mediterranean-exercise-with-us-323260" hreflang="en">Turkey says conducted Mediterranean exercise with US</a>

Tensions ratched up another notch when Turkey sent the Oruc Reis research vessel accompanied by warships to disputed waters on August 10.

EU powerhouse Germany is spearheading efforts to avoid an outright military conflict that could imperil Europe's future access to newly-discovered energy reserves.

Greece's maritime claims are backed by the entire European Union, but the bloc has so far held back from heavily sanctioning&nbsp;Turkey, fearing possible retaliation from President Recep Tayyip Erdogan.

Maas shuttled between Athens and Ankara on Tuesday in a bid to get the sides to temper the rhetoric and re-enter direct talks.

After both visits were over, Maas conceded that the dispute had entered a "very critical" phase.

Cavusoglu praised the German mediation effort but said Ankara made a good faith gesture by announcing a pause to its exploration activity last month.

He argued that&nbsp;Turkey&nbsp;felt it had to resume its work when Greece signed an agreement with Egypt to set up an exclusive economic zone on August 6, violating a general sense of goodwill.

On Sunday,&nbsp;Turkey&nbsp;announced a decision to extend its exploratory ship Oruc Reis's mission by an extra four days to Thursday, which prompted an immediate Greek response to carry out naval exercises nearby.&nbsp;

Athens is ready for a "significant de-escalation" in the Eastern Mediterranean provided Turkey halts its "provocative actions", Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis said Wednesday.

Athens is ready for a "significant de-escalation" in the Eastern Mediterranean provided Turkey halts its "provocative actions", Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis said Wednesday. Mitsotakis made the comments during a phone call with US President Donald Trump, as the row between the two neighbours over gas and maritime borders ratcheted up another notch. Earlier, Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu had said Turkey was ready for talks with Greece without any preconditions. "We are in favour of negotiations for fair sharing but nobody should lay down preconditions. This cannot happen with preconditions laid down by Greece." Also read: Mediterranean row: Turkey says ready for talks with Greece without 'preconditions' Greece and its EU allies held war games in the Mediterranean Wednesday while Turkey conducted drills with the US navy nearby, as the row between the two neighbours over gas and maritime borders ratcheted up another notch. The convergence of a growing number of warships on an energy-rich but disputed patch of sea between Cyprus and Crete came as NATO and a host of European officials called for cooler heads to prevail. Also read: Turkey says conducted Mediterranean exercise with US Tensions ratched up another notch when Turkey sent the Oruc Reis research vessel accompanied by warships to disputed waters on August 10. EU powerhouse Germany is spearheading efforts to avoid an outright military conflict that could imperil Europe's future access to newly-discovered energy reserves. Greece's maritime claims are backed by the entire European Union, but the bloc has so far held back from heavily sanctioning Turkey, fearing possible retaliation from President Recep Tayyip Erdogan. Maas shuttled between Athens and Ankara on Tuesday in a bid to get the sides to temper the rhetoric and re-enter direct talks. After both visits were over, Maas conceded that the dispute had entered a "very critical" phase. Cavusoglu praised the German mediation effort but said Ankara made a good faith gesture by announcing a pause to its exploration activity last month. He argued that Turkey felt it had to resume its work when Greece signed an agreement with Egypt to set up an exclusive economic zone on August 6, violating a general sense of goodwill. On Sunday, Turkey announced a decision to extend its exploratory ship Oruc Reis's mission by an extra four days to Thursday, which prompted an immediate Greek response to carry out naval exercises nearby.

Greek Prime Minister offers 'de-escalation' if Turkey eases off in Eastern Mediterranean

Turkey&nbsp;said on Tuesday it was ready for talks with Greece in their growing row over eastern Mediterranean natural gas without any preconditions.

The olive branch came as the two uneasy NATO allies' navies conducted separate exercises close to each other just south of Crete in a mutual show of force.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/turkey-greece-announce-rival-military-exercises-in-tense-east-mediterranean-322869" hreflang="en">Turkey, Greece announce rival military exercises in tense east Mediterranean</a>

"We are in favour of negotiations for fair sharing but nobody should lay down preconditions. This cannot happen with preconditions laid down by Greece," Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu said after talks with his German counterpart Heiko Maas in Ankara.

Greece said it will launch military exercises Wednesday with France, Italy and Cyprus in the eastern Mediterranean, the focus of escalating tensions between Athens and Ankara.

The joint exercises south of Cyprus and the Greek island of Crete will last three days, the defence ministry said.

The discovery of major gas deposits in waters surrounding Crete and Cyprus has triggered a scramble for energy riches and revived old rivalries between NATO members Greece and Turkey.

Tensions ratched up another notch when Turkey sent the Oruc Reis research vessel accompanied by warships to disputed waters on August 10.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/why-greece-turkey-are-fighting-over-hydrocarbons-in-mediterranean-sea-320304">Why Greece, Turkey are fighting over hydrocarbons in Mediterranean Sea</a>

EU powerhouse Germany is spearheading efforts to avoid an outright military conflict that could imperil Europe's future access to newly-discovered energy reserves.

Greece's maritime claims are backed by the entire European Union, but the bloc has so far held back from heavily sanctioning&nbsp;Turkey, fearing possible retaliation from President Recep Tayyip Erdogan.

Maas shuttled between Athens and Ankara on Tuesday in a bid to get the sides to temper the rhetoric and re-enter direct talks.

After both visits were over, Maas conceded that the dispute had entered a "very critical" phase.

Nevertheless, "no one wants to solve this issue in a militaristic way," Maas said through a translator, "and there is a willingness on both sides for dialogue."

Cavusoglu praised the German mediation effort but said Ankara made a good faith gesture by announcing a pause to its exploration activity last month.

He argued that&nbsp;Turkey&nbsp;felt it had to resume its work when Greece signed an agreement with Egypt to set up an exclusive economic zone on August 6, violating a general sense of goodwill.

On Sunday,&nbsp;Turkey&nbsp;announced a decision to extend its exploratory ship Oruc Reis's mission by an extra four days to Thursday, which prompted an immediate Greek response to carry out naval exercises nearby.&nbsp;

Turkey said on Tuesday it was ready for talks with Greece in their growing row over eastern Mediterranean natural gas without any preconditions. The olive branch came as the two uneasy NATO allies' navies conducted separate exercises close to each other just south of Crete in a mutual show of force.

Turkey said on Tuesday it was ready for talks with Greece in their growing row over eastern Mediterranean natural gas without any preconditions. The olive branch came as the two uneasy NATO allies' navies conducted separate exercises close to each other just south of Crete in a mutual show of force. Also read: Turkey, Greece announce rival military exercises in tense east Mediterranean "We are in favour of negotiations for fair sharing but nobody should lay down preconditions. This cannot happen with preconditions laid down by Greece," Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu said after talks with his German counterpart Heiko Maas in Ankara. Greece said it will launch military exercises Wednesday with France, Italy and Cyprus in the eastern Mediterranean, the focus of escalating tensions between Athens and Ankara. The joint exercises south of Cyprus and the Greek island of Crete will last three days, the defence ministry said. The discovery of major gas deposits in waters surrounding Crete and Cyprus has triggered a scramble for energy riches and revived old rivalries between NATO members Greece and Turkey. Tensions ratched up another notch when Turkey sent the Oruc Reis research vessel accompanied by warships to disputed waters on August 10. Also read: Why Greece, Turkey are fighting over hydrocarbons in Mediterranean Sea EU powerhouse Germany is spearheading efforts to avoid an outright military conflict that could imperil Europe's future access to newly-discovered energy reserves. Greece's maritime claims are backed by the entire European Union, but the bloc has so far held back from heavily sanctioning Turkey, fearing possible retaliation from President Recep Tayyip Erdogan. Maas shuttled between Athens and Ankara on Tuesday in a bid to get the sides to temper the rhetoric and re-enter direct talks. After both visits were over, Maas conceded that the dispute had entered a "very critical" phase. Nevertheless, "no one wants to solve this issue in a militaristic way," Maas said through a translator, "and there is a willingness on both sides for dialogue." Cavusoglu praised the German mediation effort but said Ankara made a good faith gesture by announcing a pause to its exploration activity last month. He argued that Turkey felt it had to resume its work when Greece signed an agreement with Egypt to set up an exclusive economic zone on August 6, violating a general sense of goodwill. On Sunday, Turkey announced a decision to extend its exploratory ship Oruc Reis's mission by an extra four days to Thursday, which prompted an immediate Greek response to carry out naval exercises nearby.