Intervention of Anna-Michelle Asimakopoulou at the Plenary Debate on the Preparation of the Special European Council, focusing on the dangerous escalation and the role of Turkey in the Eastern-Mediterranean.

Thank you President,

In politics, there are moments when you have to choose whose side you are on. In the case of Turkish threats, blackmail, provocations, blatant violations of the sovereign rights of Greece and Cyprus, and international law, it goes without saying that the EU will take the side of its Member States.

At least verbally, because so far, all we have are statements. Statements by Mr. Borrell, statements by the top European institutions and representatives of the Member States, statements, statements, statements. Statements of solidarity and support and statements regarding de-escalation and dialogue.

Don’t misunderstand me, statements are most welcome. De-escalation and dialogue are also welcome. As our Prime Minister, Kyriakos Mitsotakis said, “challenges stop, discussions begin.” However, in politics we are not judged by your statements, but by the results. It is obvious that Mr. Erdogan is not hearing us. Therefore, I am asking that today, united, we send a clear message to the Summit.

It is high time that we move from statements to sanctions when dealing with Turkey.

Thank you.