Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan arrived in Greece on Thursday, aiming to usher in a new era of positive relations between the two neighbors after years of tension.

Erdogan, alongside Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis, will co-chair the 5th meeting of theTürkiye-Greece High-Level Cooperation Council, evaluating all facets of bilateral relations and discussing steps to enhance cooperation.

The visit holds promises of improved ties as Erdogan expressed his aspiration for a "new chapter" in relations based on "win-win" principles in an interview with Greek daily Kathimerini ahead of his visit. Erdogan highlighted the revival of communication channels and expressed his eagerness to sign a declaration of bilateral friendship with Greece.

During discussions, regional and international developments will be on the agenda. Erdogan is scheduled to meet with Greek President Katerina Sakellaropoulou, reinforcing the commitment to dialogue and collaboration.

In his pre-visit remarks, Erdogan emphasized a non-threatening approach, stating, "Kyriakos, my friend, we do not threaten you if you do not threaten us." He underscored the mutual benefit of addressing differences through dialogue and finding common ground.

Prime Minister Mitsotakis, who recently secured a second four-year term, has also signaled a willingness to reduce tension with Ankara. The two leaders previously met in September on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly in New York.

Notably, the cooperation between the two countries' coastguards on migration-related matters has seen positive developments, with the possibility of an agreement to station officers on each other's territories.

Tensions between Türkiye and Greece have historically revolved around multiple issues, including jurisdiction in the Eastern Mediterranean, maritime boundaries, the Aegean islands' status, and the situation in Cyprus.

The Eastern Mediterranean dispute, which flared up in 2020, led to a naval standoff. However, both nations have been engaged in efforts to normalize ties, particularly since February when Greece provided aid to Türkiye following a devastating earthquake. (ILKHA)