The third Greek-Turkish High-Level Cooperation Council ended on Saturday, December 6, with the two participating countries, Greece and Turkey pledging to  strengthen their economic ties despite deep-rooted differences, particularly over Cyprus. A joint statement stated goodwill and the intention for closer bilateral cooperation in trade, tourism and energy, as well as in curbing illegal immigration.

Greek Prime Minister Antonis Samaras said: “It is known that there are indeed issues over which we have serious disagreements. We fully recognise this fact, but we aim to create a relationship of mutual respect.” He added that on the Cyprus issue, Athens backs United Nations-mediated negotiations aimed at reunifying the island, and also supports a decision by Cyprus President Nicos Anastasiades to pull out of the talks, a move prompted by Turkey’s violation of Cyprus’s Exclusive Economic Zone.

Davutoglu, on his part, noted that the two sides differed on the Cyprus issue but suggested there were signs of convergence. “We hope the Cyprus issue is solved, so cooperation in the energy sector can increase,” Davutoglu said, describing Turkey as a gateway to Asia and Greece as a gateway to Europe.

See also: Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Venizelos’ speech at the Greek-Turkish Business Forum