Türkiye warns Greece against adventure on others' behalf

By Merve Aydogan

ANKARA (AA) - Emphasizing continuing provocations by Greece, Ankara on Monday warned Athens against undertaking an adventure on behalf of others.

"As we try to respect our neighborly rights on both sides of the Aegean, Greece still continues its provocations. If you embark on an adventure on behalf of others, you will suffer the consequences today as did in the past. This is a warning to our neighbor Greece," said Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu at a symposium on the Battle of Sakarya.

The Battle of Sakarya took place on the banks of the Sakarya River, in close proximity to Turkish capital Ankara. The battleground, Polatli, is only 80 kilometers (50 miles) from Ankara.

After the battle, Ataturk was awarded the rank field marshal of the army by the parliament, as well as the title of Gazi (Veteran) for his efforts and victory on the battlefield.

The Turkish foreign minister called on Greece to not be a “tool” of others, and to end its provocations.

Türkiye, a NATO member for more than 70 years, has complained of repeated provocative actions and rhetoric by Greece in the region in recent months, including arming islands near Turkish shores that are demilitarized under a treaty, saying that such moves frustrate its good faith efforts for peace.

Defining Turkish diplomacy as "entrepreneurial and humanitarian," Cavusoglu said his country protects its rights and interests at all platforms.

"We have projects that will contribute to peace and prosperity not only in our region, but also at the global level," he added.