Diplomatic confrontation at the Economist government roundtable

During the 30th annual Economist Government Roundtable in Lagonisi, a public disagreement occurred between Greek Deputy Foreign Minister Tasos Hatzivassiliou and former Turkish Prime Minister Ahmet Davutoglu. The debate took place during a panel titled 'Europe’s next vital steps between geopolitics, EU ambitions and EU accession'. Davutoglu argued that Turkey's presence in Cyprus is compliant with international law and blamed the Greek Cypriot rejection of the 2004 Annan Plan for the ongoing deadlock. He further criticized the EU for admitting Cyprus before a final settlement was reached. In response, Hatzivassiliou countered that Turkey's actions constitute an illegal invasion and ongoing occupation of an EU member state since 1974. The moderator, Joan Hoey, attempted to restore order as Davutoglu insisted on his legal interpretation, distinguishing Turkey's position from that of Russia. Hatzivassiliou maintained the official Greek position, emphasizing the necessity of acknowledging these historical realities.