Greece issued a statement on Thursday in response to comments made by Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan concerning the 1922 Greco-Turkish War.
The Greek government characterised Erdogan’s statements as “detrimental” and cautioned that they could hinder the ongoing efforts to foster improved relations between the two nations, according to Ekathimerini.
The ministry remarked, “Uttering antagonistic declarations proves to be detrimental and does not contribute to nurturing a climate of tranquility, collaboration, and discourse, which both Greece and Turkey are striving to establish in their interactions.”
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Erdogan’s remarks were delivered on what Turkey refers to as “Victory Day,” a date commemorating Turkey’s triumph in the final battle of the Greco-Turkish War.
He recounted, “The Turkish military systematically dismantled the enemy’s defenses, inflicting substantial losses upon the Greek occupation forces and effectively paving the way to Izmir through the Commander-in-Chief’s strategic maneuvers on August 30.”
Erdogan went on to add, “A mere fortnight following the commencement of the Grand Offensive, the Turkish flag proudly fluttered in the Izmir skies, a city that had endured devastation as a result of the retreating adversary.”
Greece’s response highlights its concerns over the tone and content of Erdogan’s commentary, which it perceives as potentially impeding the establishment of a more cooperative and amicable relationship between the two nations.
Source: Ekathimerini
