As we enter the new year, let's look around us

In 2024, Turkish-Greek relations saw significant developments, continuing efforts to stabilize ties after the 2023 earthquake in Turkey. Both nations avoided provocations, fostering a positive atmosphere and focusing on internal and external issues. The re-election of existing government parties in both countries further strengthened relations. Cooperation in trade, culture, tourism, and crime prevention is set to expand. Despite the positive outlook, longstanding disputes in the Aegean, Cyprus, and Eastern Mediterranean remain unresolved, requiring courageous leadership and political will. Political dynamics within Turkey and Greece, including leadership changes and party politics, influence these relations.

SYRIZA in Greece further divided

SYRIZA, Greece's main opposition party, faces significant internal strife following a major electoral defeat and the resignation of its leader, Aleksis Tsipras. New leader Stefanos Kasselakis's controversial methods have led to the expulsion of key members and the resignation of several MPs, reducing SYRIZA's parliamentary presence. The party's future is uncertain, with potential further resignations possibly demoting it to the third-largest party in parliament. Public opinion polls indicate a decline in support for SYRIZA, with many believing the party will disband under Kasselakis's leadership.

Kocyas: Erdoğan is the most reliable leader

Greek Foreign Minister Nikos Kocyas praised Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan as the most reliable leader in Turkey, emphasizing the importance of dialogue and peace processes between Greece and Turkey. Kocyas highlighted Erdoğan's commitments, including opportunities for the return of Bozcaada Greeks and the reopening of Greek schools. Greek Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras and Education Minister Kostas Gavroğlu also discussed efforts to resolve the mufti election issue in Western Thrace, a topic raised during Erdoğan's recent visit to Greece.

Arrest Warrant for Coup Call

Greek MP Konstantinos Barbarousis from the far-right Golden Dawn party faces an arrest warrant for treason after calling for a military coup during a parliamentary session. The Greek Defense Minister Panos Kammenos filed a complaint, leading to the prosecutor's decision. Barbarousis was expelled from his party and went into hiding. The political turmoil is further fueled by a preliminary agreement between Greek Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras and Macedonian Prime Minister Zoran Zaev to resolve the long-standing name dispute, prompting a no-confidence motion from the main opposition New Democracy Party.

The Blonde Shaking Europe

Eva Kaili, a former Vice President of the European Parliament, has been implicated in a major corruption scandal involving bribes from Qatar. The scandal has led to multiple arrests, including Kaili's partner Francesco Giorgi and former Italian MEP Antonio Panzeri. Belgian authorities have seized significant amounts of cash and property linked to the accused. The scandal has shaken the European Parliament and raised questions about the influence of wealthy Gulf states on European politics. Meanwhile, Greek Prime Minister Kiryakos Mitsotakis has been active in addressing minority rights in Albania, contrasting with Greece's stance on its own minority populations.

While billions of dollars are given to America with great pleasure, people are suffering from the high cost of living

Turkey and Greece are set to spend billions on American-made fighter jets, a move celebrated by both countries despite the financial burden it places on their citizens. The article criticizes the prioritization of military spending over addressing the high cost of living and economic hardships faced by the public. It highlights the disconnect between government actions and the struggles of ordinary people, who are grappling with inflation and insufficient wage increases. The sentiment towards the United States and the military purchases is largely negative, emphasizing the irony of public celebration over expenditures that exacerbate economic difficulties.

Golden Dawn's Dirty Relationship Exposed

Golden Dawn, a far-right political party in Greece, has been exposed for its close collaboration with the Greek police. This revelation comes from phone recordings presented in court, showing that police officers provided the party with information about anti-racist and leftist protests. The scandal has led to the dismissal of several police officers and anti-terrorism officials. The party, which gained significant support in the 2015 elections, is under scrutiny for its criminal activities, including the murder of rock singer Pavlos Fissas by a party member.

Süleyman Gençel is not a terrorist, not a bandit, he can't be anyway

Süleyman Gençel, a journalist known for his opposition to various Turkish governments and his advocacy for peace and justice, has been arrested again on charges related to a decade-old case. Despite facing numerous threats and assaults throughout his career, Gençel remains steadfast in his beliefs. His friend, Greek journalist Stratis Balaskas, also faces legal challenges in Greece for his anti-nationalist writings but has been acquitted multiple times. The article draws parallels between Gençel's situation and other high-profile cases like those of Can Atalay, Osman Kavala, and Selahattin Demirtaş, emphasizing the ongoing struggle for justice.

Weapons, weapons, weapons...

The article discusses the escalating military buildup between Turkey and Greece, highlighting the extensive acquisition of weapons by both nations and the media's role in exacerbating tensions. It criticizes the focus on military strength over peaceful dialogue and economic well-being, referencing historical and contemporary figures to advocate for peace. The author reflects on past anti-war sentiments and the current lack of such movements, emphasizing the detrimental impact of defense spending on economic stability and public welfare.

A Short Break...

Reflects on the historical perspective of the conquest of Istanbul, highlighting Orhan Pamuk's view that it should be remembered rather than celebrated due to the loss of life. Discusses the prevalent issues of violence against women and animal cruelty in both countries, noting the frequent news reports of femicides and the often ignored complaints of women subjected to violence.