JOURNALIST: Apparently the EU’s verbal criticism of Turkey’s drilling in the Cypriot EEZ was not enough. What sanctions do Cyprus and Greece think are necessary? Which EU countries are against these sanctions?G. KATROUGALOS: The value of the recent decision lies precisely in that the EU is moving from words to deeds. For the first time, a clear decision was taken on measures – targeted measures, without delay – as a response to Turkey’s escalating illegal and provocative conduct. These measures range from simple economic measures that concern the relations of the European Union and Turkey to sanctions on involved companies and individuals. The Council will consider the Commission’s recommendations and decide, depending on how Turkey conducts itself. Regarding the last part of your question, it is correct that some partners are more hesitant to take drastic measures, while others support us more strongly. But in the end it was a unanimous decision because we convinced everyone that Turkey's actions constitute not just a bilateral dispute, but the borders, continental shelf and EEZ of the EU itself.JOURNALIST: Are there thoughts regarding a dynamic intervention by Greece, based on its status as a guarantor power?G. KATROUGALOS: The whole notion of guarantees is a remnant of the colonial era and has no place in the 21st century. Our solidarity with Cyprus is a given and self-evident. It doesn’t have to be dressed up in legalities to be expressed.JOURNALIST: Can we rule out a similar Turkish move in the Kastelorizo region?G. KATROUGALOS: The necessary messages have been sent, in the right way, to avert such an illegal eventuality. Our diplomatic alliances, the enhancement of our country’s international standing, and the deterrent power of our Armed Forces have made this message clear in all directions. Of course we are always vigilant, without fear or concern. Greeks should feel safe. Our country’s voice is strong and respected.JOURNALIST: Have you decoded what Turkey wants on the hydrocarbons issue? Is there room for understanding?G. KATROUGALOS: The strategy of revisionism of international agreements is a consistent characteristic of Turkey’s policy. Turkey has always felt suffocated by the rules of international law, and if it could, it would instead impose a policy of negotiation under the threat of force. In this context, it is maintaining a state of tension through the threat of drilling in the Cypriot EEZ, trying to create accomplished facts. This effort has proved pointless, to the extent that these actions have been unanimously condemned as illegal by the whole of the international community. Continuation of illegal provocations will not help Turkey create accomplished facts, given that international condemnation and isolation are stopping it from using international law to create grey areas with regard to Cyprus’s sovereign rights. The only way out is dialogue within the framework of international legality. We and the Republic of Cyprus want to resolve our differences and delimit our EEZs jointly with Turkey. But Turkish respect for international law is a necessary conditions for this.JOURNALIST: Are you worried about the possibility of an open clash between Turkey and the U.S. – on Syria, the Kurdish issue, the S-400 system, Mediterranean hydrocarbons – ending in a compromise that might hurt Greece’s interests?G. KATROUGALOS: Greek-U.S. relations are at their apex, marked by the inauguration of the Strategic Dialogue at the end of last year. This upgrading of our cooperation was possible, because the two sides believe they have converging interests, which consist mainly in ensuring stability in the wider region of the eastern Mediterranean. In light of this, our country’s geostrategic importance stands on its own and is only enhanced by Turkey’s uncommitted and unpredictable policy. In other words, we fill the strategic gap left by Turkey. As such, I don’t see a likelihood of a deal that might hurt our interests.
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