Our views on the statements and actions, which threaten peace and tranquility in the Aegean, of the Minister of Defense of Greece had been made public on various occasions.

Turkey has always acted in accordance with and respected international law. On the other hand, we have time and again stated that there are a number of interrelated issues in the Aegean Sea between Turkey and Greece.

Turkey attaches importance to the resolution of these issues in line with international law and through peaceful means. Hence, it is with this understanding that bilateral dialogue channels have been established between the two countries.

Greece, whose dismal record on the implementation of fundamental requirements of international law is well known, is not in a position to say anything to anyone on this subject.

Taking this opportunity, we once again underline that the Minister of Defense of Greece should put an end to his unacceptable remarks and actions, which aim at stalling efforts towards strengthening good neighborly and friendly relations as well as cooperation between the two countries.