Former ministers urge dialogue, law to navigate tense Eastern Mediterranean

The complex security and energy landscape of the Eastern Mediterranean took center stage at a high-level conference in Istanbul, where former ministers and diplomats stressed the critical need for dialogue and adherence to international law. Hosted by The Great Art Foundation at Bogazici University, the event titled "Shifting Security Dynamics in and around the Mediterranean" brought together key regional voices to address escalating tensions and potential cooperation.

Türkiye’s Call for Equity and Rejection of Unilateral Moves

Moderated by former Turkish Defense Minister Hulusi Akar, the panel highlighted the strategic crossroads the region represents. Akar asserted Türkiye's role as a stabilizing ally, stating, "Türkiye is not a threat. Türkiye is an ally." He firmly rejected unilateral maritime claims, emphasizing that disputes must be resolved through dialogue and an equitable sharing of maritime areas based on international law, not through imposed faits accomplis.

A Greek Warning and a Maltese Vision for Cooperative Security

Former Greek Defense Minister Evangelos Apostolakis warned that attempts to revise the legal status quo risk broader destabilization, insisting international law must serve as the region's "compass." From a broader perspective, former Maltese Foreign Minister Evarist Bartolo argued for "cooperative security" that encompasses development and social welfare. He warned of strategic mistakes, particularly Europe's neglect of Africa, and highlighted the global power shift toward Asia as transformative for the Mediterranean's future.

Energy, Demographics, and the Path of Negotiation

Retired Turkish Ambassador Mithat Rende detailed the overlapping maritime claims complicating energy exploration, criticizing mechanisms that exclude Türkiye. He advocated for patience, protracted negotiation as seen in other global maritime disputes, and suggested joint development of resources as a pragmatic interim solution. The dialogue underscored a shared, albeit cautious, recognition that the region's future hinges on managing competition through sustained diplomatic engagement and equitable frameworks.