Turkey's Defense Minister Reminds Greece of the 'Fate of Greeks Hanged 100 Years Ago'

Turkey continues to give adequate response to all illegal actions of Greece, both at the negotiating table and 'on the ground.' Ankara will not allow the formation of a status quo that infringes on Turkey's interests in the region.

As reported by Anadolu Agency, this was stated by Turkey's National Defense Minister Hulusi Akar while speaking at an event dedicated to Veterans Day, Tert.am reports.

According to him, a false perception has developed in Athens that bringing disputes to the international arena will change the situation in the region. He stated, 'Suppose Greece is unaware of the geographical and scientific realities of the region. But refusing to learn lessons from history is hypocrisy. Perhaps they have forgotten the fate of those Greeks who, 100 years ago, after falling into adventure, were sent to Anatolia to conquer. Some of them eventually were hanged. But we, as good neighbors, will remind them of this.'

The Turkish minister urged the Greek side to recognize the seriousness of the situation. 'Get off the wrong path. Avoid provocations that will lead to disaster. Don't descend into the well with a stranger's rope. Turkey once again sincerely calls on sensible Greeks to dialogue and peacefully resolve issues in accordance with international law in the light of friendly relations.'

Akar also emphasized that Ankara is ready to turn the Aegean and Mediterranean seas into a 'zone of friendship.' 'If Athens stops seeing Ankara as an enemy and recognizes Turkey as a reliable ally and neighbor, then not only Greece but the entire region, as well as NATO, will ultimately benefit. The Greek people should be confident that Turkey advocates for a peaceful and prosperous common future.'

Akar highlighted that Turkey is determined to defend its rights and interests in the Aegean and Eastern Mediterranean, including on the Cyprus issue.