The existence and confirmation of open channels with Turkey is a positive and necessary stepDimitrios Manzos, parliamentary representative of PASOK, in a first reaction to Erdoğan’s visit to Athens today, pointing out, however, that detailed information is expected for today’s council.

Mr. Mantzou’s announcement in detail:

The existence and confirmation of open channels with Turkey is a positive and necessary step.

In this light and with the criterion of inclusion in a long-term national strategy, we also face the signing of the Declaration between the Greek Prime Minister and the Turkish President.

The essence is always behind the photos and the formal declarations: In the text of the pact, in its binding nature and whether its general wording can leave possible room for different interpretations.

After all, building trust requires progress on the ground and not just statements – as characteristically proves the attempt to restore Mr. Erdogan to a “Turkish” and not a Muslim minority.

With these admissions, PASOK – Movement for Change remains committed to a principled policy towards Turkey, with mutual and verifiable respect for international law and complete abandonment of Ankara’s revisionist strategy. We are carefully studying the texts of the bilateral ministerial agreements and expect detailed information both for today’s council and for the next steps in the dialogue with Turkey.