Escalating tensions between the regional rivals that have mounted in recent weeks, the Turkish Coast Guard has now accused Greek ships of firing on its cargo vessel in the Aegean Sea.

According to the Turkish statement, there were no casualties in the shooting 11 nautical miles (13 miles) southwest of the Turkish island of Bozcaada.

Two Turkish Coast Guard ships went to the area and the Greek boats left following what Ankara called “harassment fire”.

With both sides alleging airspace violations, the neighbouring countries have been embroiled in disputes for decades and frictions have ratcheted up in recent weeks.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/turkey-versus-greece-a-long-history-of-disputes-323392">Also see |&nbsp;Turkey versus Greece: A long history of disputes</a>

Following Russia’s war in Ukraine, Greek officials have raised concerns about another outbreak of conflict in Europe.

While Turkey accuses Greece of breaking international agreements by keeping a military presence on islands close to its coastline, Athens says it needs to defend its eastern islands.

Saying the Greek Coast Guard is attacking them, the Turkish Coast Guard released a video showing a bullet hole in a window and in the ceiling of the cargo ship’s bridge.

Despite recent "unacceptable" comments from Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan, Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis said on Sunday that Athens would try to keep communication channels with Ankara open.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Escalating tensions between the regional rivals that have mounted in recent weeks, the Turkish Coast Guard has now accused Greek ships of firing on its cargo vessel in the Aegean Sea.

Escalating tensions between the regional rivals that have mounted in recent weeks, the Turkish Coast Guard has now accused Greek ships of firing on its cargo vessel in the Aegean Sea. According to the Turkish statement, there were no casualties in the shooting 11 nautical miles (13 miles) southwest of the Turkish island of Bozcaada. Two Turkish Coast Guard ships went to the area and the Greek boats left following what Ankara called “harassment fire”. With both sides alleging airspace violations, the neighbouring countries have been embroiled in disputes for decades and frictions have ratcheted up in recent weeks. Also see | Turkey versus Greece: A long history of disputes Following Russia’s war in Ukraine, Greek officials have raised concerns about another outbreak of conflict in Europe. While Turkey accuses Greece of breaking international agreements by keeping a military presence on islands close to its coastline, Athens says it needs to defend its eastern islands. Saying the Greek Coast Guard is attacking them, the Turkish Coast Guard released a video showing a bullet hole in a window and in the ceiling of the cargo ship’s bridge. Despite recent "unacceptable" comments from Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan, Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis said on Sunday that Athens would try to keep communication channels with Ankara open. (With inputs from agencies) Watch WION's live TV here: ×

Turkish Coast Guard accuses Greek ships of firing on its cargo vessel in Aegean Sea

Amid differences with Finland and Sweden over NATO membership, Turkey's President Recep Tayyip Erdogan declared that he no longer recognises Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis.

Erdogan accussed Mitsotakis of trying to block the sale of American F-16 fighters during his visit to the United States. Turkey's president said Mitsotakis had spoken to the US Congress where he reportedly asked the US lawmakers not to supply the fighters to Turkey.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/address-terror-related-concerns-erdogan-tells-finland-sweden-over-nato-bid-481104">Also Read |&nbsp;Address terror-related concerns: Erdogan tells Finland, Sweden over NATO bid</a>

However, he said the US "will make up its own mind on selling F-16s".

Erdogan had earlier accussed Greece of harbouring the Gülenist Terror Group (FETÖ).

"There’s no longer anyone called Mitsotakis in my book," Turkey's prime minister declared, adding, "I will never agree to have a meeting with him because we only walk on the same path as politicians who keep their promises&nbsp;who have character and who are honourable.”

Watch:&nbsp;Erdogan calls Swedish &amp; Finnish leaders

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The F-16 deal was halted&nbsp;by the former Trump administration after Turkey acquired the Russian S-400 defence missile systems.&nbsp;

Erdogan had earlier ordered 100 US F-35 jets, however, after the Russian defence deal, Turkey was removed from the programme. Turkey said the move was unjust as it demanded reimbursement of its $1.4 billion payment.

There has been tensions between Turkey and Greece over a several issues including maritime boundary claims, energy security, space and the status of the islands in the Aegean Sea.&nbsp;

(With inputs from Agencies)

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You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

Amid differences with Finland and Sweden over NATO membership, Turkey's President Recep Tayyip Erdogan declared that he no longer recognises Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis.

Amid differences with Finland and Sweden over NATO membership, Turkey's President Recep Tayyip Erdogan declared that he no longer recognises Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis. Erdogan accussed Mitsotakis of trying to block the sale of American F-16 fighters during his visit to the United States. Turkey's president said Mitsotakis had spoken to the US Congress where he reportedly asked the US lawmakers not to supply the fighters to Turkey. Also Read | Address terror-related concerns: Erdogan tells Finland, Sweden over NATO bid However, he said the US "will make up its own mind on selling F-16s". Erdogan had earlier accussed Greece of harbouring the Gülenist Terror Group (FETÖ). "There’s no longer anyone called Mitsotakis in my book," Turkey's prime minister declared, adding, "I will never agree to have a meeting with him because we only walk on the same path as politicians who keep their promises who have character and who are honourable.” Watch: Erdogan calls Swedish & Finnish leaders The F-16 deal was halted by the former Trump administration after Turkey acquired the Russian S-400 defence missile systems. Erdogan had earlier ordered 100 US F-35 jets, however, after the Russian defence deal, Turkey was removed from the programme. Turkey said the move was unjust as it demanded reimbursement of its $1.4 billion payment. There has been tensions between Turkey and Greece over a several issues including maritime boundary claims, energy security, space and the status of the islands in the Aegean Sea. (With inputs from Agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

No longer anyone called Mitsotakis in my book, Erdogan attacks Greek PM

Turkey's Defence Minister Hulusi Akar has warned Greece not to test the country's patience with provocations.

The two neighbours, allies in NATO, are at odds over a number of issues from commercial rights in the Aegean to territorial waters and the ethnically-split island of Cyprus.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/turkey-versus-greece-a-long-history-of-disputes-323392">Also see |&nbsp;Turkey versus Greece: A long history of disputes</a>

“They (Greece) should not miscalculate and think it’s the right time (to extend the territorial waters to) 12 miles,” Akar said.&nbsp;

“They should not test us in any way, and should not embark on such an adventure. I hope they don’t make such a mistake.”

“Let the two sides benefit from the riches, let both the Turkish people and the Greek people live happily and prosperously,” he added.

According to Akbar, “Our vision from the very beginning is this: We are for peace, for the solution of problems through negotiations. Let’s not increase the tension, let’s stay away from any provocative behavior... That’s why we tell our interlocutors over and over that it is very important to act with caution.”

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/why-greece-turkey-are-fighting-over-hydrocarbons-in-mediterranean-sea-320304">Also read |&nbsp;Why Greece, Turkey are fighting over hydrocarbons in Mediterranean Sea</a>

Greece and Turkey almost clashed last year when each sent out warships to sea regions they considered their own. Although those scenes have not been repeated, the two countries regularly snipe over Cyprus, against which Turkey has mounted a consistent challenge to stop the east Mediterranean island exploring offshore for oil and gas.

Cyprus's internationally-recognised Greek Cypriot government have issued licences for offshore oil and gas exploration, a move that Turkey says disregards the rights of the island's Turkish Cypriot community.

Offshore exclusive economic zones are maritime areas agreed between neighbouring states, defining where a country has commercial rights such as the right to explore for hydrocarbons. Those zones can extend to up to 200 nautical miles from a shoreline, or, if sharing the sea area with another state, the equidistance between the two.

But in the case of Greece and Turkey, the issue is complicated by disputes over the extent of their continental shelves and the limit of their territorial waters. The dispute has held up any declaration by Greece to extend its territorial waters to 12 miles from 6 in the Aegean.

(With inputs from agencies)

Turkey's Defence Minister Hulusi Akar has warned Greece not to test the country's patience with provocations. The two neighbours, allies in NATO, are at odds over a number of issues from commercial rights in the Aegean to territorial waters and the ethnically-split island of Cyprus.

Turkey's Defence Minister Hulusi Akar has warned Greece not to test the country's patience with provocations. The two neighbours, allies in NATO, are at odds over a number of issues from commercial rights in the Aegean to territorial waters and the ethnically-split island of Cyprus. Also see | Turkey versus Greece: A long history of disputes “They (Greece) should not miscalculate and think it’s the right time (to extend the territorial waters to) 12 miles,” Akar said. “They should not test us in any way, and should not embark on such an adventure. I hope they don’t make such a mistake.” “Let the two sides benefit from the riches, let both the Turkish people and the Greek people live happily and prosperously,” he added. According to Akbar, “Our vision from the very beginning is this: We are for peace, for the solution of problems through negotiations. Let’s not increase the tension, let’s stay away from any provocative behavior... That’s why we tell our interlocutors over and over that it is very important to act with caution.” Also read | Why Greece, Turkey are fighting over hydrocarbons in Mediterranean Sea Greece and Turkey almost clashed last year when each sent out warships to sea regions they considered their own. Although those scenes have not been repeated, the two countries regularly snipe over Cyprus, against which Turkey has mounted a consistent challenge to stop the east Mediterranean island exploring offshore for oil and gas. Cyprus's internationally-recognised Greek Cypriot government have issued licences for offshore oil and gas exploration, a move that Turkey says disregards the rights of the island's Turkish Cypriot community. Offshore exclusive economic zones are maritime areas agreed between neighbouring states, defining where a country has commercial rights such as the right to explore for hydrocarbons. Those zones can extend to up to 200 nautical miles from a shoreline, or, if sharing the sea area with another state, the equidistance between the two. But in the case of Greece and Turkey, the issue is complicated by disputes over the extent of their continental shelves and the limit of their territorial waters. The dispute has held up any declaration by Greece to extend its territorial waters to 12 miles from 6 in the Aegean. (With inputs from agencies)

Turkey warns Greece not to test its patience with provocations

Greece's Foreign minister&nbsp;Nikos Dendias has said that India, Greece, and UAE will soon establish a trilateral dialogue even as Athens is working to "develop a Strategic Partnership" with New Delhi.

Speaking exclusively to WION's&nbsp;principal diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal from Athens,&nbsp;Foreign minister&nbsp;Nikos said, "Greece as an EU Member-State has the capacity to act as a bridge between the European Union and India.".&nbsp;&nbsp;

India's Minister of External Affairs Subrahmanyam&nbsp;Jaishankar had recently visited Greece, becoming the first Indian external affairs minister&nbsp;to visit the country in 18 years. During that visit, Greece officially joined India led and headquartered the International solar alliance as well.&nbsp;

Greek counterpart Nikos Dendias also hit out at Turkey&nbsp;saying that the country is "increasingly playing the religious card in order to advance its geopolitical agenda" which is a "worrying trend."

He explained that "Turkey threatens Greece with war if Greece exercises her inherent sovereign rights" and does not "respect the basic principles of International Law, including fundamental provisions of the UN Charter."

WION: What was the key focus during your meeting with India's EAM? It is after 18 year an Indian EAM visited, Greece. What was the key outcome in terms of furthering India-Greece ties?

Nikos Dendias:&nbsp;Precisely as you mentioned, this was the first visit of an Indian Minister of External Affairs to Athens in almost two decades. This visit was long overdue. And I look forward to visiting New Delhi in the near future.

At first glance, Greece and India may seem to have little in common. India is an emerging global power, with almost 1.4 billion population. Greece has close to 11 million inhabitants. Geographically we are far apart.

However, such an approach is superficial and does not take into account the many things that tie us together. Greece is the birthplace of democracy. India is the biggest democracy in the world.

Both countries share the same principles. Respect for International Law, including the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea, peaceful resolution of disputes, as well as non-interference in the internal affairs of other states.

During our discussions, we touched on the major international developments. But, we also addressed the need to enhance our bilateral ties. Through regular political dialogue, as well as people to people contacts including in the fields of trade and culture. Our aim is to develop a Strategic Partnership that will reflect the level of our bilateral relations.

We will work together in the coming months, in order to finalise a series of agreements that, unfortunately, have been pending for years. Let me also add another important dimension: Greece as an EU Member-State has the capacity to act as a bridge between the European Union and India. In this respect, we fully support the further enhancement of EU-India relations. Last but definitely not least, the visit of my counterpart Dr. Jaishankar was an occasion to unveil the statue in Athens of a towering figure of the 20th Century, Mahatma Gandhi.

WION: You have joined the International solar alliance. How do you see the alliance at a time when climate change has been the biggest worry?&nbsp;

Nikos Dendias:&nbsp;This is a very important initiative undertaken by Indian Prime Minister Modi, along with then French President Hollande, that will help in addressing the biggest global challenge that our planet is facing, namely climate change. We commend this initiative and we are very happy that we joined it.

The government, under the leadership of Prime Minister Mitsotakis is taking a series of initiatives in order to reduce our dependence on fossil fuels, as well as increase the use of renewable energy sources. Greece, being a country that is blessed by the sun, has the potential to take advantage of solar energy. In this regard, our participation in the solar Alliance will help us in achieving our goals.

WION: You both talked about UN reforms, Do you think it is a possibility given the resistance by some countries like China. Also, your neighbour Turkey, part of the coffee group (along with Pakistan) opposing India's bid.

Nikos Dendias:&nbsp;Greece is in favour of UN reform, including the expansion of the UN Security Council, as well as other multilateral institutions, in order to make them more inclusive, transparent, accountable, and reflect today's geopolitical realities. Allow me to take this opportunity to commend India's participation in the Security Council, where she is seating since January this year and will be presiding it in a few weeks' time. Let me also stress that Greece has also presented its candidacy for a non-permanent seat for the period 2025-26. India's support in our bid will be of paramount importance.&nbsp;&nbsp;

WION: You discussed Eastern Mediterranean, Cyprus and Libya. Can you elaborate on what kind of discussion happened?&nbsp;

Nikos Dendias:&nbsp;I took the opportunity to brief my counterpart on the developments in the region adjoining Greece. Geographically speaking this region may be far away from India. However, in a globalized world, in which India is increasingly playing a larger role, distances are shrinking.

Therefore, I underlined that what happens in this part of the world is having an effect in other parts of the world. I underlined that the pursuance of aggressive and revisionist policies by one particular state are destabilizing not just the immediate neighbourhood, but the wider region as well. I also stressed that the state in question is using religious affinities in its attempt to revive empire dreams. Or rather, ghosts of the past.

I also commended India's contribution to the UN peacekeeping force in Cyprus, as well as India's efforts, as a leader of the non-aligned movement in reaching a just and lasting solution to the Cyprus issue in line with the provisions of the relevant UN Security Council Resolutions. That is a bizonal, bicommunal federation.

Moreover, opportunities for new schemes are emerging. And we want India to be actively engaged in them. We have developed a strategic partnership with the United Arab Emirates. And we look forward to establish a trilateral dialogue [including India] in the near future.

WION: How much Turkey was discussed with India. What was India's response?

Nikos Dendias:&nbsp;Let me start by your second question. I cannot speak on behalf of India. However, from my side, apart from outlining Turkey's [neo-Ottoman] ambitions in the region, as well as its [aggressive] behaviour against almost all its neighbours, there is a need to highlight two points, that should be of concern to India as well.

First, Turkey, is trying to establish a military permanent presence in many countries. This could be a destabilizing factor.

Second, Turkey is increasingly playing the religious card in order to advance its geopolitical agenda. We have seen examples of this in our immediate neighbourhood, in the Balkans and the Eastern Mediterranean, but increasingly also in other parts of the world. Especially in Africa, in particular East Africa. This is a worrying trend.

WION: How much do you think Turkey has been a worry for you in the region. And how much you think, India can be an ally in the cause that brings New Delhi and Athens together?

Nikos Dendias:&nbsp;The biggest challenge that Turkey is posing, not just to Greece, but to the whole region, is that she does not respect the basic principles of International Law, including fundamental provisions of the UN Charter. She threatens Greece with war, if Greece exercises her inherent sovereign rights.

Furthermore, Turkey refuses to address the sole bilateral issue she has with Greece on the basis of International Law. The challenge is not Turkey as a country. It is the fact that Turkey refuses to abide by the rules defined and accepted by the International Community. In this regard, India, a country that upholds these rules, can play a major role internationally.

WION: How do you see the Indo Pacific vision? The joint press release mentioned the term.

Nikos Dendias:&nbsp;Greece is a maritime nation. And we uphold basic principles such as the freedom of navigation and respect for the International Law of the Sea. In this vein, we highly appreciate the fact that the Quad Leaders meeting that took place, virtually, a few months ago, underlined these principles, which in turn were specifically mentioned in the Communiqué.&nbsp;

Allow me to conclude by stressing one more point: India has reached agreements with almost all of its neighbours on the delimitation of Exclusive Economic Zones on the basis of International Law. In one case, together with Bangladesh, India has referred the issue to the International Court of Justice. This reflects exactly Greece's position on the issue.

Only one of India's neighbours is still refusing to abide by these principles. Greece is facing a similar situation whereby only one neighbour is refusing to respect the same rules.

Greece's Foreign minister Nikos Dendias has said that India, Greece, and UAE will soon establish a trilateral dialogue even as Athens is working to "develop a Strategic Partnership" with New Delhi.

Greece's Foreign minister Nikos Dendias has said that India, Greece, and UAE will soon establish a trilateral dialogue even as Athens is working to "develop a Strategic Partnership" with New Delhi. Speaking exclusively to WION's principal diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal from Athens, Foreign minister Nikos said, "Greece as an EU Member-State has the capacity to act as a bridge between the European Union and India.". India's Minister of External Affairs Subrahmanyam Jaishankar had recently visited Greece, becoming the first Indian external affairs minister to visit the country in 18 years. During that visit, Greece officially joined India led and headquartered the International solar alliance as well. Greek counterpart Nikos Dendias also hit out at Turkey saying that the country is "increasingly playing the religious card in order to advance its geopolitical agenda" which is a "worrying trend." He explained that "Turkey threatens Greece with war if Greece exercises her inherent sovereign rights" and does not "respect the basic principles of International Law, including fundamental provisions of the UN Charter." WION: What was the key focus during your meeting with India's EAM? It is after 18 year an Indian EAM visited, Greece. What was the key outcome in terms of furthering India-Greece ties? Nikos Dendias: Precisely as you mentioned, this was the first visit of an Indian Minister of External Affairs to Athens in almost two decades. This visit was long overdue. And I look forward to visiting New Delhi in the near future. At first glance, Greece and India may seem to have little in common. India is an emerging global power, with almost 1.4 billion population. Greece has close to 11 million inhabitants. Geographically we are far apart. However, such an approach is superficial and does not take into account the many things that tie us together. Greece is the birthplace of democracy. India is the biggest democracy in the world. Both countries share the same principles. Respect for International Law, including the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea, peaceful resolution of disputes, as well as non-interference in the internal affairs of other states. During our discussions, we touched on the major international developments. But, we also addressed the need to enhance our bilateral ties. Through regular political dialogue, as well as people to people contacts including in the fields of trade and culture. Our aim is to develop a Strategic Partnership that will reflect the level of our bilateral relations. We will work together in the coming months, in order to finalise a series of agreements that, unfortunately, have been pending for years. Let me also add another important dimension: Greece as an EU Member-State has the capacity to act as a bridge between the European Union and India. In this respect, we fully support the further enhancement of EU-India relations. Last but definitely not least, the visit of my counterpart Dr. Jaishankar was an occasion to unveil the statue in Athens of a towering figure of the 20th Century, Mahatma Gandhi. WION: You have joined the International solar alliance. How do you see the alliance at a time when climate change has been the biggest worry? Nikos Dendias: This is a very important initiative undertaken by Indian Prime Minister Modi, along with then French President Hollande, that will help in addressing the biggest global challenge that our planet is facing, namely climate change. We commend this initiative and we are very happy that we joined it. The government, under the leadership of Prime Minister Mitsotakis is taking a series of initiatives in order to reduce our dependence on fossil fuels, as well as increase the use of renewable energy sources. Greece, being a country that is blessed by the sun, has the potential to take advantage of solar energy. In this regard, our participation in the solar Alliance will help us in achieving our goals. WION: You both talked about UN reforms, Do you think it is a possibility given the resistance by some countries like China. Also, your neighbour Turkey, part of the coffee group (along with Pakistan) opposing India's bid. Nikos Dendias: Greece is in favour of UN reform, including the expansion of the UN Security Council, as well as other multilateral institutions, in order to make them more inclusive, transparent, accountable, and reflect today's geopolitical realities. Allow me to take this opportunity to commend India's participation in the Security Council, where she is seating since January this year and will be presiding it in a few weeks' time. Let me also stress that Greece has also presented its candidacy for a non-permanent seat for the period 2025-26. India's support in our bid will be of paramount importance. WION: You discussed Eastern Mediterranean, Cyprus and Libya. Can you elaborate on what kind of discussion happened? Nikos Dendias: I took the opportunity to brief my counterpart on the developments in the region adjoining Greece. Geographically speaking this region may be far away from India. However, in a globalized world, in which India is increasingly playing a larger role, distances are shrinking. Therefore, I underlined that what happens in this part of the world is having an effect in other parts of the world. I underlined that the pursuance of aggressive and revisionist policies by one particular state are destabilizing not just the immediate neighbourhood, but the wider region as well. I also stressed that the state in question is using religious affinities in its attempt to revive empire dreams. Or rather, ghosts of the past. I also commended India's contribution to the UN peacekeeping force in Cyprus, as well as India's efforts, as a leader of the non-aligned movement in reaching a just and lasting solution to the Cyprus issue in line with the provisions of the relevant UN Security Council Resolutions. That is a bizonal, bicommunal federation. Moreover, opportunities for new schemes are emerging. And we want India to be actively engaged in them. We have developed a strategic partnership with the United Arab Emirates. And we look forward to establish a trilateral dialogue [including India] in the near future. WION: How much Turkey was discussed with India. What was India's response? Nikos Dendias: Let me start by your second question. I cannot speak on behalf of India. However, from my side, apart from outlining Turkey's [neo-Ottoman] ambitions in the region, as well as its [aggressive] behaviour against almost all its neighbours, there is a need to highlight two points, that should be of concern to India as well. First, Turkey, is trying to establish a military permanent presence in many countries. This could be a destabilizing factor. Second, Turkey is increasingly playing the religious card in order to advance its geopolitical agenda. We have seen examples of this in our immediate neighbourhood, in the Balkans and the Eastern Mediterranean, but increasingly also in other parts of the world. Especially in Africa, in particular East Africa. This is a worrying trend. WION: How much do you think Turkey has been a worry for you in the region. And how much you think, India can be an ally in the cause that brings New Delhi and Athens together? Nikos Dendias: The biggest challenge that Turkey is posing, not just to Greece, but to the whole region, is that she does not respect the basic principles of International Law, including fundamental provisions of the UN Charter. She threatens Greece with war, if Greece exercises her inherent sovereign rights. Furthermore, Turkey refuses to address the sole bilateral issue she has with Greece on the basis of International Law. The challenge is not Turkey as a country. It is the fact that Turkey refuses to abide by the rules defined and accepted by the International Community. In this regard, India, a country that upholds these rules, can play a major role internationally. WION: How do you see the Indo Pacific vision? The joint press release mentioned the term. Nikos Dendias: Greece is a maritime nation. And we uphold basic principles such as the freedom of navigation and respect for the International Law of the Sea. In this vein, we highly appreciate the fact that the Quad Leaders meeting that took place, virtually, a few months ago, underlined these principles, which in turn were specifically mentioned in the Communiqué. Allow me to conclude by stressing one more point: India has reached agreements with almost all of its neighbours on the delimitation of Exclusive Economic Zones on the basis of International Law. In one case, together with Bangladesh, India has referred the issue to the International Court of Justice. This reflects exactly Greece's position on the issue. Only one of India's neighbours is still refusing to abide by these principles. Greece is facing a similar situation whereby only one neighbour is refusing to respect the same rules.

Greek FM Nikos Dendias says India, Greece, UAE to establish trilateral dialogue; hits out Turkey

Northern&nbsp;Cyprus&nbsp;said on Tuesday&nbsp;it will reopen&nbsp;the coastal section of the long-fenced-off disputed town of Varosha, a Turkish Cypriot leader announced Tuesday ahead of elections at the weekend.

The move has been condemned by Greek Cypriots and is likely to conjure up memories of the 1974 Turkish invasion that partitioned the island.

It&nbsp;could weigh on Turkey's dispute with European Union members&nbsp;Cyprus&nbsp;and Greece over territorial rights in the Eastern Mediterranean. Tensions had eased after Ankara and Athens agreed to resume talks, but&nbsp;Cyprus, a close ally of the Greece, promptly condemned the move to partially reopen the abandoned resort and said it would file a recourse to the United Nations Security Council.

The internationally-recognised government of the divided Mediterranean island swiftly condemned the decision as a "pre-election stunt" and said it would lodge protests to the UN Security Council and European Union.

Speaking after a meeting in Ankara with Turkey's President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, Turkish Cypriot premier Ersin Tatar told reporters that "the coast will open to the public from Thursday morning".

EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell said the bloc was "very concerned" about the announcement concerning Varosha -- part of the wider Famagusta area -- and stressed the "urgency of restoring confidence and not of creating greater divisions."

The Turkish army has kept Varosha fenced off since its Greek Cypriot residents fled when it invaded northern&nbsp;Cyprus&nbsp;in 1974 in response to an Athens-engineered coup attempting to unite the island with Greece.

Backed by Ankara, right-winger Tatar is running in Sunday's presidential election in northern&nbsp;Cyprus&nbsp;against the incumbent, Mustafa Akinci, seen as a pro-reunification moderate.

Turkey, the only country that recognises the self-proclaimed Turkish Republic of Northern&nbsp;Cyprus&nbsp;(TRNC), has long planned to open Varosha.

Erdogan on Tuesday welcomed Tatar's announcement as a "courageous decision".

"We hope Varosha will entirely open. We are ready to give any support to TRNC officials on this issue," Erdogan said.

"It is an undisputed fact that Varosha is a Turkish Cypriot territory. The decision about it rests with the Turkish Cypriot authorities," he added.

In northern Nicosia, an angry Akinci said the Varosha announcement made in Ankara amounted to "interference in our elections" and a "disgrace for our democracy".

Cyprus&nbsp;government spokesman Kyriakos Kousios said it "strongly condemns the decision of occupier Turkey and its applauder Ersin Tatar to extend entry to the Varosha coast".

It was "a pre-election stunt created in Ankara, on the eve of an election for a new Turkish Cypriot leader", he said.

"This provocative and illegal action by Turkey will be denounced to the UN Security Council, EU and all international forums."

The Security Council has passed several resolutions calling for UN administration of Varosha and for its original Greek Cypriot residents to return.

In Brussels, EU enlargement commissioner Oliver Varhelyi warned Tuesday that the Varosha announcement "does not help de-escalation in the region".

Borrell said that the "events will cause increased tensions and risk complicating the efforts to resume talks on the settlement of the&nbsp;Cyprus&nbsp;issue."

Northern Cyprus said on Tuesday it will reopen the coastal section of the long-fenced-off disputed town of Varosha, a Turkish Cypriot leader announced Tuesday ahead of elections at the weekend.

Northern Cyprus said on Tuesday it will reopen the coastal section of the long-fenced-off disputed town of Varosha, a Turkish Cypriot leader announced Tuesday ahead of elections at the weekend. The move has been condemned by Greek Cypriots and is likely to conjure up memories of the 1974 Turkish invasion that partitioned the island. It could weigh on Turkey's dispute with European Union members Cyprus and Greece over territorial rights in the Eastern Mediterranean. Tensions had eased after Ankara and Athens agreed to resume talks, but Cyprus, a close ally of the Greece, promptly condemned the move to partially reopen the abandoned resort and said it would file a recourse to the United Nations Security Council. The internationally-recognised government of the divided Mediterranean island swiftly condemned the decision as a "pre-election stunt" and said it would lodge protests to the UN Security Council and European Union. Speaking after a meeting in Ankara with Turkey's President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, Turkish Cypriot premier Ersin Tatar told reporters that "the coast will open to the public from Thursday morning". EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell said the bloc was "very concerned" about the announcement concerning Varosha -- part of the wider Famagusta area -- and stressed the "urgency of restoring confidence and not of creating greater divisions." The Turkish army has kept Varosha fenced off since its Greek Cypriot residents fled when it invaded northern Cyprus in 1974 in response to an Athens-engineered coup attempting to unite the island with Greece. Backed by Ankara, right-winger Tatar is running in Sunday's presidential election in northern Cyprus against the incumbent, Mustafa Akinci, seen as a pro-reunification moderate. Turkey, the only country that recognises the self-proclaimed Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC), has long planned to open Varosha. Erdogan on Tuesday welcomed Tatar's announcement as a "courageous decision". "We hope Varosha will entirely open. We are ready to give any support to TRNC officials on this issue," Erdogan said. "It is an undisputed fact that Varosha is a Turkish Cypriot territory. The decision about it rests with the Turkish Cypriot authorities," he added. In northern Nicosia, an angry Akinci said the Varosha announcement made in Ankara amounted to "interference in our elections" and a "disgrace for our democracy". Cyprus government spokesman Kyriakos Kousios said it "strongly condemns the decision of occupier Turkey and its applauder Ersin Tatar to extend entry to the Varosha coast". It was "a pre-election stunt created in Ankara, on the eve of an election for a new Turkish Cypriot leader", he said. "This provocative and illegal action by Turkey will be denounced to the UN Security Council, EU and all international forums." The Security Council has passed several resolutions calling for UN administration of Varosha and for its original Greek Cypriot residents to return. In Brussels, EU enlargement commissioner Oliver Varhelyi warned Tuesday that the Varosha announcement "does not help de-escalation in the region". Borrell said that the "events will cause increased tensions and risk complicating the efforts to resume talks on the settlement of the Cyprus issue."

North Cyprus to reopen disputed 'ghost town' with Turkish backing

European Union chief&nbsp;Ursula von der Leyen on Wednesday warned Turkey against trying to intimidate Greece and Cyprus, as tensions grow over energy reserves in the eastern Mediterranean.

In her annual State of the EU speech, Ursula von der Leyen said Ankara was a key partner doing important work hosting refugees but stressed "none of this is justification for attempts to intimidate its neighbours".

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>

Cyprus President Nicos Anastasiades said the Mediterranean island&nbsp;is ready to engage in dialogue with Turkey to resolve differences but not under threats.

"Yesterday unfortunately a Turkish NAVTEX to expand illegal drilling by the Yavuz vessel was extended when at the same time a series of initiatives are ongoing that seek an end to Ankara's unlawful actions and de-escalation," he said, after a meeting with EU Council President Charles Michel in Nicosia.

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>

Anastasiades said Turkey was continuing its provocations in the eastern Mediterranean.

On Tuesday, Turkey extended the operations of its Yavuz energy drill ship in disputed Mediterranean waters off Cyprus until Oct. 12, in a move that could stir tension between the island's Greek Cypriot government and Ankara.

Turkey, Greece and Cyprus have been locked in a row over energy resources and maritime borders in the region, with Ankara infuriating the EU countries by sending research ships with naval escorts to work in contested waters.

There have been fears of conflict erupting and Cyprus is pressing the rest of the EU to impose fresh sanctions on Ankara over the drilling.

"Turkey is and will always be an important neighbour, but while we are close together on the map, the distance between us appears to be growing," von der Leyen told the European Parliament.

"Yes, Turkey is in a troubled neighbourhood. And yes, it is hosting millions of refugees, for which we support them with considerable funding. But none of this is justification for attempts to intimidate its neighbours."

Greece and Cyprus can count on Europe's "full solidarity on protecting their legitimate sovereignty rights", she added.

European Union chief Ursula von der Leyen on Wednesday warned Turkey against trying to intimidate Greece and Cyprus, as tensions grow over energy reserves in the eastern Mediterranean.

European Union chief Ursula von der Leyen on Wednesday warned Turkey against trying to intimidate Greece and Cyprus, as tensions grow over energy reserves in the eastern Mediterranean. In her annual State of the EU speech, Ursula von der Leyen said Ankara was a key partner doing important work hosting refugees but stressed "none of this is justification for attempts to intimidate its neighbours". Also see: Now, Turkey stages military exercises in eastern Mediterranean amid tensions with Greece Cyprus President Nicos Anastasiades said the Mediterranean island is ready to engage in dialogue with Turkey to resolve differences but not under threats. "Yesterday unfortunately a Turkish NAVTEX to expand illegal drilling by the Yavuz vessel was extended when at the same time a series of initiatives are ongoing that seek an end to Ankara's unlawful actions and de-escalation," he said, after a meeting with EU Council President Charles Michel in Nicosia. Also see: Turkey versus Greece: A long history of disputes Anastasiades said Turkey was continuing its provocations in the eastern Mediterranean. On Tuesday, Turkey extended the operations of its Yavuz energy drill ship in disputed Mediterranean waters off Cyprus until Oct. 12, in a move that could stir tension between the island's Greek Cypriot government and Ankara. Turkey, Greece and Cyprus have been locked in a row over energy resources and maritime borders in the region, with Ankara infuriating the EU countries by sending research ships with naval escorts to work in contested waters. There have been fears of conflict erupting and Cyprus is pressing the rest of the EU to impose fresh sanctions on Ankara over the drilling. "Turkey is and will always be an important neighbour, but while we are close together on the map, the distance between us appears to be growing," von der Leyen told the European Parliament. "Yes, Turkey is in a troubled neighbourhood. And yes, it is hosting millions of refugees, for which we support them with considerable funding. But none of this is justification for attempts to intimidate its neighbours." Greece and Cyprus can count on Europe's "full solidarity on protecting their legitimate sovereignty rights", she added.

European Union chief warns Turkey against 'intimidating' neighbours

Turkey and Greece announced rival military exercises in the eastern Mediterranean for Tuesday as Germany prepared to take another crack at defusing the NATO allies' escalating row over natural gas.

The discovery of major deposits in waters surrounding Cyprus and the Greek island of Crete has triggered a scramble for energy riches and revived old regional rivalries.

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/turkeys-bid-to-become-maritime-powerhouse-unsettles-mediterranean-322473">Turkey's bid to become maritime powerhouse unsettles Mediterranean</a>

Greece said Monday that it will conduct a navy and air force exercise in an area of the eastern Mediterranean where Turkey is prospecting for oil and gas in an area as the neighboring countries remain locked in a dispute over offshore energy rights.

The country and its European Union ally France, both dispatched their own naval assets to the area to monitor Turkey's work.

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 foreign ministers convened an emergency videoconference on the emerging crisis when a Turkish frigate collided with a Greek one in disputed circumstances days into the Oruc Reis mission.

Germany has taken the lead in trying to calm a dispute that threatens to complicate EU nations' efforts to tap new sources of energy that can reduce their dependence on countries such as Russia.

Its foreign minister, Heiko Maas, will visit Athens and Ankara on Tuesday to try to put talks between the two rivals back on track.

But the difficulties became even more apparent when Athens and Ankara announced plans to stage sea exercises in the same region south of Crete on Tuesday.

The Greek exercises appeared to have been announced in response to Turkey's decision to extend the Oruc Reis mission by an extra four days to Thursday.

Turkey's defence ministry responded by planning its own "maritime trainings... to promote coordination and interoperability" south of Crete at the same time.

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said he might decide to keep the Oruc Reis out at sea even longer and accused Greece of behaving "in an unauthorised and spoilt manner".

The Turkish government disputes Greece's claim to exclusive rights in the waters where the research vessel is working, arguing that islands should not be included in calculating sea boundaries between countries.

Turkey and Greece announced rival military exercises in the eastern Mediterranean for Tuesday as Germany prepared to take another crack at defusing the NATO allies' escalating row over natural gas.

Turkey and Greece announced rival military exercises in the eastern Mediterranean for Tuesday as Germany prepared to take another crack at defusing the NATO allies' escalating row over natural gas. The discovery of major deposits in waters surrounding Cyprus and the Greek island of Crete has triggered a scramble for energy riches and revived old regional rivalries. Tensions ratched up another notch when Turkey sent the Oruc Reis research vessel accompanied by warships to disputed waters on August 10. Also read: Turkey's bid to become maritime powerhouse unsettles Mediterranean Greece said Monday that it will conduct a navy and air force exercise in an area of the eastern Mediterranean where Turkey is prospecting for oil and gas in an area as the neighboring countries remain locked in a dispute over offshore energy rights. The country and its European Union ally France, both dispatched their own naval assets to the area to monitor Turkey's work. Also read: Why Greece, Turkey are fighting over hydrocarbons in Mediterranean Sea EU foreign ministers convened an emergency videoconference on the emerging crisis when a Turkish frigate collided with a Greek one in disputed circumstances days into the Oruc Reis mission. Germany has taken the lead in trying to calm a dispute that threatens to complicate EU nations' efforts to tap new sources of energy that can reduce their dependence on countries such as Russia. Its foreign minister, Heiko Maas, will visit Athens and Ankara on Tuesday to try to put talks between the two rivals back on track. But the difficulties became even more apparent when Athens and Ankara announced plans to stage sea exercises in the same region south of Crete on Tuesday. The Greek exercises appeared to have been announced in response to Turkey's decision to extend the Oruc Reis mission by an extra four days to Thursday. Turkey's defence ministry responded by planning its own "maritime trainings... to promote coordination and interoperability" south of Crete at the same time. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said he might decide to keep the Oruc Reis out at sea even longer and accused Greece of behaving "in an unauthorised and spoilt manner". The Turkish government disputes Greece's claim to exclusive rights in the waters where the research vessel is working, arguing that islands should not be included in calculating sea boundaries between countries.

Turkey, Greece announce rival military exercises in tense east Mediterranean

A new geopolitical storm brewing in the Mediterranean threatens to become a multinational conflict and it could engulf Europe.

Currently, there are two factions, on one hand, there are European countries like France, Cyprus and Greece, one the other there's Turkey - a country that wants to establish a modern-day Islamic Caliphate and is taking a cue from China's expansionism.

Turkey's President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has been militarising the eastern Mediterranean region where several geopolitical faultlines converge. There are maritime boundary disputes, claims and counterclaims of sovereignty which were local affairs but in the last five years it has become serious due to the strategic value of the area and the discovery of offshore natural gas reserves which is estimated to be worth trillions of dollars and therefore conflicts over these reserves have began.

Earlier this month, Greek and Turkish vessels collided in the eastern Mediterranean region as both sides called the collision an "accident", however, what followed&nbsp;tells a different story.

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It was not an accident but was a deliberate move. It was Turkey's way of flexing its naval muscle while declaring that the de facto boundaries that exist in these waters were illegitimate.

The Turkish vessel Oruc Reis that collided remains stationed not far from the collision site. Erdogan says the vessel is exploring oil and gas in the Mediterranean and that it will continue to do so till August 23 if attempts are made to stop it from doing so then Turkey will retaliate.

"They will receive their answer in kind," said the Turkish president.

Meanwhile, Greece has asked the European Union to respond to Turkey's aggression. Greece says Turkey's actions are illegal and it has exclusive economic rights in the disputed waters, Cyprus says the same and alleges that Turkey wants to destabilise the Mediterranean region and that it is trying to blackmail and threaten European countries into submission.

However, the European Union remains divided on how to handle Turkey. The six Mediterranean based European countries are evenly split. Greece, Cyprus and France want strong action against Turkey while Italy, Malta and Spain don't want to get involved probably because they share commercial interests with Turkey.

Now, all eyes are now on Germany which holds the EU presidency till July next year. It can lead the way and break the deadlock but Berlin is known to keep Ankara close to the European Union and right now it is looking the other way.&nbsp;

German Chancellor Angela Merkel has been accused of appeasing Erdogan for Germany's energy interests since it relies on external sources to get natural gas and ties with Turkey come in handy.

A new geopolitical storm brewing in the Mediterranean threatens to become a multinational conflict and it could engulf Europe. Currently, there are two factions, on one hand, there are European countries like France, Cyprus and Greece, one the other there's Turkey - a country that wants to establish a modern-day Islamic Caliphate and is taking a cue from China's expansionism.

A new geopolitical storm brewing in the Mediterranean threatens to become a multinational conflict and it could engulf Europe. Currently, there are two factions, on one hand, there are European countries like France, Cyprus and Greece, one the other there's Turkey - a country that wants to establish a modern-day Islamic Caliphate and is taking a cue from China's expansionism. Turkey's President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has been militarising the eastern Mediterranean region where several geopolitical faultlines converge. There are maritime boundary disputes, claims and counterclaims of sovereignty which were local affairs but in the last five years it has become serious due to the strategic value of the area and the discovery of offshore natural gas reserves which is estimated to be worth trillions of dollars and therefore conflicts over these reserves have began. Earlier this month, Greek and Turkish vessels collided in the eastern Mediterranean region as both sides called the collision an "accident", however, what followed tells a different story. × It was not an accident but was a deliberate move. It was Turkey's way of flexing its naval muscle while declaring that the de facto boundaries that exist in these waters were illegitimate. The Turkish vessel Oruc Reis that collided remains stationed not far from the collision site. Erdogan says the vessel is exploring oil and gas in the Mediterranean and that it will continue to do so till August 23 if attempts are made to stop it from doing so then Turkey will retaliate. "They will receive their answer in kind," said the Turkish president. Meanwhile, Greece has asked the European Union to respond to Turkey's aggression. Greece says Turkey's actions are illegal and it has exclusive economic rights in the disputed waters, Cyprus says the same and alleges that Turkey wants to destabilise the Mediterranean region and that it is trying to blackmail and threaten European countries into submission. However, the European Union remains divided on how to handle Turkey. The six Mediterranean based European countries are evenly split. Greece, Cyprus and France want strong action against Turkey while Italy, Malta and Spain don't want to get involved probably because they share commercial interests with Turkey. Now, all eyes are now on Germany which holds the EU presidency till July next year. It can lead the way and break the deadlock but Berlin is known to keep Ankara close to the European Union and right now it is looking the other way. German Chancellor Angela Merkel has been accused of appeasing Erdogan for Germany's energy interests since it relies on external sources to get natural gas and ties with Turkey come in handy.

Why eastern Mediterranean has become a crisis centre for Europe