Turkey Rejects EU Maritime Spatial Planning Maps as Legally Invalid

Turkey has declared the EU’s Maritime Spatial Planning maps of the Aegean and Mediterranean seas as “null and void,” stating that they carry “no legal effect.” The Turkish Foreign Ministry emphasized that they will not allow the violation of Turkey’s rights with this planning. They also stated that the EU has no authority to comment on maritime disputes between sovereign states and that the EU’s involvement in such initiatives makes it more difficult to resolve these disputes.

Furthermore, the Turkish Foreign Ministry expressed concern that unilateral attempts by the EU undermine efforts to find a comprehensive and just solution to the interrelated Aegean issues. They emphasized the importance of solving these problems based on international law and good neighborliness. Turkey has consistently maintained that issues with Greece should be handled directly between the two countries, rather than involving the EU or any third parties.

Turkey’s stance on the matter reflects its commitment to resolving disputes through bilateral negotiations and in accordance with international law. By rejecting the EU’s Maritime Spatial Planning maps, Turkey asserts its sovereignty and emphasizes the importance of direct dialogue between neighboring countries to address maritime issues in the region.

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