Greece has revived its initiative for an Eastern Mediterranean Forum designed to unite regional nations, including Libya and Turkey, to address critical issues such as migration, environmental protection, and maritime boundaries. Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis announced this plan in parliament, emphasizing Greece’s desire for constructive dialogue with neighboring countries grounded in respect for international law, particularly the Law of the Sea. Mitsotakis stated that Greece would soon invite all coastal nations to participate in the forum, asserting that engaging in dialogue allows Greece to defend its positions effectively.
The proposed forum aims to include key states such as Greece, Cyprus, Turkey, Egypt, and Libya, and will concentrate on five essential areas: migration, marine environmental protection, maritime connectivity, maritime zone delimitation, and civil protection. The Greek Foreign Ministry is tasked with exploring the forum’s feasibility and determining whether it can evolve into a permanent platform for cooperation.
This concept was initially introduced by Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, who highlighted the necessity for a fair distribution of resources in the Eastern Mediterranean. The idea gained momentum in 2020 when European Council President Charles Michel supported the forum amid heightened tensions over Turkey’s Oruç Reis research vessel. However, the initiative struggled to advance due to disagreements concerning participation, the structural framework of the forum, and the legal implications of any commitments made.
Overall, Greece’s renewed push for the Eastern Mediterranean Forum reflects a strategic move to enhance regional cooperation while showcasing its commitment to international law and equitable resource management in the critical waters of the Eastern Mediterranean. The success of this forum will depend on overcoming past disputes and fostering a spirit of collaboration among the involved nations.
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