Greek PM Mitsotakis to Mark Kastellorizo Liberation Anniversary Amid Turkey Dispute

Over Saturday and Sunday, Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis will travel to the southeastern Aegean island of Kastellorizo for the 83rd anniversary of its liberation, bringing with him the speaker of Parliament, the chief of the Hellenic National Defense General Staff, the interior minister and four New Democracy MPs from the Dodecanese. The timing follows Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan’s recent statements threatening the demilitarisation of Greek islands and referencing the nearby Turkish town of Kas, prompting Turkish media to mock the Greek leader’s trip.

Foreign Minister George Gerapetritis said the visit is primarily symbolic, linked to the historic milestone, and demonstrates Greece’s commitment to its eastern islands despite Turkey’s unilateral marine-park declarations that restrict Kastellorizo’s waters. He added that Greece does not fear a military clash, noting that diplomatic channels remain open while the country stays prepared for any scenario. During the stay, Mitsotakis is expected to meet the mayor of Megisti, tour infrastructure projects and attend anniversary events.