Mitsotakis-Erdogan meeting in NYC confirms ‘thaw’ in bilateral relations, emphasis on ‘positive agenda’, CBMs

A closely watched meeting between the Greek and Turkish leaders, Kyriakos Mitsotakis and Recep Tayyip Erdogan, respectively, in New York City on Wednesday afternoon concluded with the result, as a joint statement announced, of a “road map” for subsequent contacts by top diplomats of both countries in the coming period, a mostly expected outcome.

The meeting, which included both countries’ foreign ministers, was held at the Turkish House (Turkevi), a high-rise hosting all of the country’s diplomatic and state services in the US metropolis and UN seat.

As also expected, in the wake of a “thaw” of bilateral relations since elections in both countries this year, both sides committed maintaining a “positive atmosphere” in bilateral relations.

As reported by Ot.gr a day earlier, Athens and Ankara have agreed to focus on a “positive agenda” (investments, tourism etc.) in the coming period and implementation of so-called confidence-building measures (CBMs). The next significant date on the agenda is a convening of a bilateral high level cooperation council , essentially contacts between ministerial delegations of both countries at a single venue, with the upcoming meeting coming in Thessaloniki on Dec. 7.

According to reports, Erdogan and Mitsotakis also discussed climate change and its impact on their respective countries, as well as the urgent issue of illegal migration. On the latter, it was agreed that both sides “agreed to cooperate” in dealing with the problem and recognizing that it comprises a “common challenges” – although no details were announced.

IN terms of the former issue, climate crisis, both sides said deepening cooperation in civil defense is a priority.