Greece announced the creation of two new Marine Parks, one in the Aegean and one in the Ionian Sea, ahead of the "Our Ocean Conference" in Athens later this month. Türkiye says the move by Greece is an attempt to exploit environmental issues for political gain in the ongoing dispute over Aegean territories.

The Turkish Ministry specifically advised Greece not to include disputed islands and features within the Marine Park and called on the European Union to avoid becoming involved in "politically motivated attempts."

Despite the criticism, Türkiye expressed its willingness to cooperate with Greece on environmental issues in the Aegean Sea, following international maritime law regarding cooperation between coastal states. However, Türkiye emphasized it will not recognize any claims Greece attempts to establish through the Marine Park in disputed areas. (ILKHA)