In a possible conflict with Turkey, France will be on the side of Greece and Cyprus in protecting their sovereignty, French Foreign Minister Catherine Colonna said.
The statement came after her meeting with Greek Foreign Minister Nikos Dendias in Athens. During the talks between the ministers of the two countries, Dendias noted and condemned the “unprecedented” statements of Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan, who warned Greece of a tough response if “Greek provocations” continue:
“They are unheard of. And reprehensible. But we do not stop. We are not afraid. In our history, we have faced much more serious threats. We reject neo-Ottoman attacks. But I would advise anyone planning an attack on Greece to think three or four times. We have confidence in our alliances and our partners.”
To which the French minister replied:
“France said this, and I repeat that she will be on the side of Greece and Cyprus in case of a threat to their national sovereignty. But if something like this happens, we signed an agreement where article 21 describes a similar case. If the two sides are convinced that such happens, then they will have mutual assistance.
The statement of the French Foreign Ministry was made against the background of the aggravation of relations between Greece and Turkey. Former Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan warned Greece about a possible strike at any moment:
“Athens is aware of Turkey’s determination and therefore no longer takes steps aimed at escalating the situation in the region.”
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