Ministry of Foreign Affairs: The EU's maps of the Aegean and Mediterranean are null and void.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a written statement regarding the European Union's (EU) Maritime Spatial Planning activities. The statement emphasized that Turkey closely follows the EU's relevant activities, makes necessary warnings to the relevant parties to protect its rights in the Aegean and Mediterranean, and takes all necessary measures.

"INVALID FROM TURKEY'S PERSPECTIVE"

The statement included, "The maps used for the Aegean and Mediterranean in this study are invalid from Turkey's perspective, and they do not have any actual or legal consequences. We reiterate that we will not allow this study to violate our rights."

"THE EU HAS NO AUTHORITY TO EXPRESS OPINIONS"

The statement reminded that the EU has no authority to express opinions on disputes regarding maritime jurisdiction areas between sovereign countries, stating, "The EU's involvement in such initiatives complicates the resolution of issues."

It was stated in the statement that unilateral actions regarding maritime jurisdiction areas cannot be accepted, and it was noted, "Such attempts will harm efforts to achieve a comprehensive, fair, and sustainable solution to the interconnected Aegean issues."

The statement pointed out that a sincere and comprehensive approach should be adopted for the resolution of issues based on international law, friendship, and good neighborliness.

WHAT HAPPENED?

The European Commission had shown Turkey's continental shelf within the borders of Greece in the Aegean Sea map prepared as part of its marine spatial planning activities.