Greece Submits Maritime Plans Amid Turkey Tensions

Greece has finalized and submitted its maritime spatial plan to the European Union after years of delay and criticism from both EU authorities and environmental groups. The plan, which organizes activities such as fishing, tourism, offshore energy, and environmental protection, aims to balance ecological, economic, and social goals while protecting marine ecosystems. However, the plan does not define exclusive economic zones, which remain subject to bilateral agreements, and its release has sparked objections from Turkey, which claims parts of the mapped areas violate its maritime jurisdiction in the Aegean and Eastern Mediterranean. Turkey, which is also advancing its own marine spatial planning rooted in its national maritime doctrine, accused Greece of unilateral action and reiterated calls for cooperation in managing shared seas. The dispute underscores longstanding tensions between the two NATO allies over maritime boundaries and resource rights. Environmental organizations continue to press Greece for stronger marine conservation measures.