Message from FM Davutoglu to the neighbour

Foreign Minister Ahmet Davutoglu has warned Greece not to take unilateral steps concerning the dispute over natural resources in the Aegean, saying such steps would prompt Turkey to take counter measures. When reminded of news reports suggesting Athens had been planning to start digging in disputed areas of the Aegean Sea to search for natural resources, Davutoglu said the issue was being followed very closely. "Unilateral steps should be avoided during such critical periods, because currently there is a positive atmosphere between Turkey and Greece," Davutoglu said. The minister also noted that the next meeting of the High-Level Strategic Partnership Council between the two countries would likely be held in March. "While Turkey-Greece relations have gained momentum, it is important that we take all steps together and as part of these negotiations," he said.