What to expect in Athens-Ankara relations in 2024

Greece's Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis, left, welcomes Turkey's President Recep Tayyip Erdogan before their meeting at Maximos Mansion in Athens, December 7, 2023. Most analysts agree that no substantial developments should be expected in bilateral ties in 2024. [AP]

Last year started with Athens and Ankara relations probably at the lowest ebb in years, but Turkey's deadly earthquakes that struck weeks later and Greece's response to the tragedy created a new backdrop for bilateral relations.

2023 ended with the two NATO allies agreeing to reboot their relations, establishing a roadmap designed to initiate a new era of closer ties during a landmark visit to Athens by Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan.

"Geography and history have dictated that we live in the same neighborhood … But I feel a historical responsibility to utilize this opportunity to bring the two states side by side, just as our borders are," Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis said in a meeting where both sides appeared keen to repair their relations.

"There is no issue between us that is unsolvable," said Erdogan. Only a year earlier, he had warned...

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