In a significant move towards enhancing regional security, Greek Citizen Protection Minister Michalis Chrysochoidis and Turkish Interior Minister Mustafa Ciftci met in Athens to discuss strengthening bilateral cooperation against cross-border crime. The discussions, held at Greece’s Ministry of Citizen Protection, aimed at addressing shared security challenges such as organized crime, terrorism, extremism, human trafficking, and drug smuggling.
This meeting followed the Greece–Türkiye Supreme Cooperation Council’s session in Ankara from February, reflecting ongoing efforts to improve collaboration despite historical tensions between the two nations. A central focus of the dialogue was enhancing information sharing and operational coordination between Greek and Turkish security agencies. Chrysochoidis highlighted concerns about Turkish nationals allegedly linked to criminal groups operating within Greece.
Ciftci expressed support for expanding joint efforts, particularly in disrupting criminal networks involved in human trafficking. Both ministers acknowledged the importance of maintaining and expanding current cooperation levels to effectively tackle these security threats.
The discussions also emphasized the need to address criminal networks exploiting undocumented migrants and engaging in money laundering tied to illegal activities. By working together, Greece and Türkiye aim to dismantle these networks and enhance regional stability.
The meeting underscores a mutual commitment to addressing shared security issues, showcasing a willingness to collaborate on matters of significant concern despite longstanding differences. This partnership is seen as a crucial step towards ensuring the safety and security of both nations and the broader region.