“We are in favor of solving problems through dialogue within the framework of the law and good neighborly relations,” the Turkish Defense Minister stressed. Hulusi Akar in joint statements with his Finnish counterpart, Andy Kaikonenin Ankara.

He added: “Dialogue alone does not mean problem solving. But it is also impossible to solve problems without dialogue. We attach great importance to NATO’s consultative talks, confidence-building measures and separation processes and are doing our best to continue them.”

“Two meetings on confidence building measures were held in Athens and one in Ankara. We have been waiting two years for the arrival of the Greek delegation to Ankara for the fourth meeting, which was to be held in Ankara. But they didn’t come. I invite my Greek colleague to Turkey every time we meet because good relations between ministers help to create an atmosphere for solving problems. However, every time my colleague postpones the invitation/visit for different reasons. Such is the situation. At the last NATO meeting, I told my Greek colleague that problems cannot be solved by meeting on foot. I repeated the invitation,” he added.

And he continued by saying that “Turkey does not pose a threat to any country. This is not a country that will bow to threats. Some politicians and some soldiers in Greece are almost asleep dreaming. They should wake up now. They must see the reality and act accordingly.”

“In spite of absurd, illegal statements, we emphasized in all our appeals that problems can be solved through dialogue. We have 20 tasks? We stressed that at least 3 or 5 of them can be resolved through delegation negotiations, and even if they cannot be resolved, they can be kept under control and resolved in a way that does not harm the region and the NATO alliance. To say that we will not violate our rights is not a threat. Dialogue is not a weakness. Don’t be tempted by others. Put your feet on the ground,” he concluded.