German Foreign Minister Heiko Maas rejected Greece's request to stop all arms exports to Turkey due to the dispute over natural gas exploration in the eastern Mediterranean.
In statements to a German channel, Maas said that from the strategic point of view, he does not consider this the right way, and that it will not be completely easy for a partner within NATO, "NATO."
Maas acknowledged that diplomatic relations have not yet resulted in the desired progress in this conflict, explaining that for this reason the European Union decided two weeks ago to impose sanctions against Turkish personalities and companies participating in the drilling operations in the Eastern Mediterranean.
He explained that he has not yet given up the hope of settling the dispute through diplomatic channels, and that he is counting that the permanent exclusion of a partner in NATO from cooperation in the field of armaments is not an option.
A few days ago, Greece announced that it had raised several times the issue of imposing an arms embargo on Turkey, as part of the European Union's agenda.
The eastern Mediterranean region is experiencing tension as Greece continues to take unilateral steps with the Roman side of the island of Cyprus and some countries in the region regarding areas of maritime jurisdiction.
Athens also neglects to deal positively with Ankara's offer to negotiate on issues related to the eastern Mediterranean and the Aegean Sea, and to find fair solutions to problems, while the Turkish side renews its firm stance regarding taking the necessary measures against unilateral steps.