Erdogan declares Turkey is not an enemy of Greece

On Thursday, September 24, 2026, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan delivered a message of reconciliation regarding Greek-Turkish relations while speaking at the Turkevi in New York, following his participation in the 81st UN General Assembly. He explicitly stated that Turkey is not an enemy of Greece, but rather a neighbor and a NATO ally, emphasizing the importance of maintaining peace and stability in the Aegean Sea and the Eastern Mediterranean.

Erdogan addressed the political climate in Greece, stating that bilateral relations are too sensitive to be used as tools for electoral maneuvering. He noted that Turkey has no interest in interfering with Greece's internal affairs, including upcoming elections, government transitions, or changes in the opposition. The Turkish leader stressed that his primary focus remains on his country's security and rights.

While the statement reflects a desire to maintain the current period of calm in the Aegean, analysts cited by regional media suggest this may be a strategic maneuver to navigate a difficult diplomatic period for Ankara. Sources noted that the remarks follow recent tensions and were made amidst reports that Erdogan failed to secure a meeting with Donald Trump during his visit to the United States.