PM: No talks with Ankara over Aegean

In answer to a tabled question by Popular Orthodox Rally (Laos) leader Yiorgos Karatzaferis, Prime Minister George Papandreou told Parliament that no discussion of co-exploitation in the Aegean Sea can be held with neighbouring Turkey under the still existent threat of war (casus belli), issued in the 1990s by Turkey's assembly....
  The reason, he added, is that "our territorial rights are being disputed via incessant violations and infringements, and of course, because Turkey has not recognised the International Law of the Sea."

He also cited the fact that the issue of the Aegean's continental shelf has not been resolved based on international law and the International Court of The Hague.

Moreover, Papandreou noted that whatever press speculation of late emanating from the Turkish side is merely done for reasons of public relations.

Nevertheless, the prime minister said Athens is serious about launching an initiative for a European Union discussion on Turkey's accession course, as long as the EU hopeful meets set conditions for accession.

Referring to possible oil deposits in the Aegean, Papandreou said Greece is interested in the delineation of maritime territorial zone with all neighbouring countries, while the current law on exploitation of energy reserves will be updated.

On his part, Karatzaferis cited what he called a contradiction, namely, the fact that Greece is the best supporter "of a country that is threatening us with war if we exercise our rights based on the International Law".

by (ANA-MPA)