Greek PM Mitsotakis to Meet Erdogan in Historic High-Level Talks Amid Tensions
The Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis will co-chair the sixth Türkiye-Greece High-Level Cooperation Council meeting with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on February 11, 2026. This high-stakes meeting comes amidst simmering tensions between the two nations and raises questions about whether it can pave the way for a thaw in long-standing animosities or merely serve as another gesture of goodwill.
The complex history between Greece and Turkey serves as a stark reminder of the delicate dance of power and diplomacy that defines their relations. Since 1923, tensions have simmered over issues ranging from territorial disputes to cultural identity, with the legacy of the Greek Genocide remaining a deeply sensitive topic that continues to strain relations.
In recent years, tensions have escalated further, with Turkey's military incursions into Cyprus and its contentious energy exploration activities off Greece's coast sparking outrage and concern among Athens' allies. Ankara's increasingly assertive foreign policy has drawn criticism from NATO members, including Greece, which has been a stalwart ally of the United States.
Despite these tensions, both leaders have maintained a cautious optimism about their relationship, acknowledging the need for improved cooperation in areas such as energy, trade, and regional security. The upcoming meeting represents a critical moment in this narrative, as the two leaders strive to build trust and cooperation on key regional issues.
The global implications of this meeting are significant, reflecting broader trends in regionalization, multipolarity, and shifting power dynamics. Turkey's actions have far-reaching consequences, influencing the Middle East, Southeast Asia, and Europe. The Turkish-Egyptian summit on February 4, 2026, highlights Ankara's efforts to strengthen its relationships with regional powers and counterbalance the influence of other actors in the region.
Historical precedents suggest that high-level diplomatic efforts can have significant outcomes, often leading to breakthroughs in previously intractable conflicts or fostering new avenues for cooperation. The landmark Turkish-Israeli agreement on energy cooperation in 2009 marked a major shift in Ankara's relations with Tel Aviv and paved the way for increased economic ties between the two nations.
As Ankara and Athens navigate their differences and explore areas of cooperation, they are also reflecting the changing landscape of international relations in the 21st century. The Turkish-Greek relationship will continue to play a significant role in shaping regional dynamics and influencing global governance.
Ultimately, the success of this meeting will depend on the willingness of both parties to engage in meaningful dialogue and cooperation. By examining the historical precedents, global implications, and local context of this meeting, we can gain a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing Greece, Turkey, and the wider international community.