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On Friday, February 18, Club Turkuaz hosted Mr. Ioannis Corantis, the Greek Ambassador to Turkey, who gave a speech entitled 'Greek-Turkish Relations: Past, Present, and Future'. Mr. Corantis began with a brief overview of Greek-Turkish relations over the years. The ambassador pointed out that there is no need now to assign blame for the past. Instead, it is important to understand that mistrust between the two nations grew after 1955 as a result of their differing perceptions of each other's actions. Ambassador Corantis likened the past periods of conflict and tension to 'rhetorical' posters plastered over each other; the original colour of the wall underneath is forgotten. Greece and Turkey, he continued, are now in the process of stripping away the layers of posters on the wall.
Ioannis Corantis, the Greek Ambassador
The ambassador then addressed current Turkish-Greek relations. He said one of the main reasons for the improved relationship is the increase in economic and political maturity and confidence which the two countries experienced in the 1990's. This has led to greater dialogue about what the ambassador called 'the bread and butter of bilateral relations': issues like tourism, shipping, trade, and energy. He said that he looks forward to the day when such contacts between Turkey and Greece will be simply a part of 'normal business'.
Mr. Corantis lastly emphasized the importance Greece gives to Turkey's candidacy for entry into the European Union, and its insistence that the candidacy not be a 'virtual one' but a first step towards real partnership.
Before taking his leave, the ambassador answered a number of questions from the audience and thanked Club Turkuaz and Bilkent University for giving him the opportunity to express his views on Turkish-Greek relations.
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