“We declare that problems can be solved through international law, good neighborly relations, peaceful ways and methods and dialogue. At the meeting, he stressed the importance of meeting more often and strengthening dialogue in the context of good neighborly relations”Mr. Akar said, adding:

“We must agree on a comprehensive and permanent solution. To solve the problem, good-neighborly relations and international relations are necessary. We are two NATO allies. We must solve our own problems. For this reason, dialogue becomes a necessary tool for us. We believe that it is beneficial for both countries to maintain our relations in a way that does not cause tension. It is necessary to solve the problem between Turkey and Greece without the need for third party intervention.. It is important that both Turkey and Greece meet to resolve problems by focusing on a positive agenda.”

Recalling that consultations, disengagement processes and talks on confidence-building measures are underway between the two countries, the Turkish Defense Minister said: “We see that all three channels have been stopped at the moment. These conversations and work in these areas must begin. We estimate that these studies may begin in the near future. Our delegations met twice within the framework of confidence building measures (CBMs). We went to Athens. The Greek delegation came to Turkey once. Therefore, we expressed the opinion that we are waiting for the Greek delegation in Ankara for the fourth meeting. We hope that such dialogues will begin in the coming days.”

“We will continue to do our best for peace and stability. Turkey does not pose a threat to friends and allies, it is a reliable, strong and effective ally. Everyone should know this. We hope that the Aegean and the Eastern Mediterranean will become a sea of ​​friendship, that all wealth will be shared fairly, and that a peaceful and secure environment will emerge. We will always be one step ahead towards the world. We want peace, we believe that peace can be achieved through dialogue. We declare that we expect third countries to solve problems, that they see our sound and logical arguments in accordance with international law, that they do not consider the issue only from the point of view of EU solidarity, but that they see the facts objectively and fairly. Let everyone know that if they take a stand, it will help not to resolve the events, but to break the deadlock,” he further stressed.

“We are waiting for a decision on the F-16, but there are alternatives”

The Turkish Defense Minister also addressed this issue. US F-16 deliverieswhich has been in the spotlight in recent days.

“We expect that with the solution of this issue, our relations will reach a higher level. We all see that the purchase of the F-16 will make a significant contribution to both regional and global peace and security. We expect a good decision on the delivery of the F-16.”he said, but added that Ankara is also considering alternative solutions:

“We are making efforts to positively resolve the F-16 issue as soon as possible. However, there are alternative solutions,” he said.