Greece and Turkey told German Foreign Minister Heiko Maas on Tuesday that they did not want to settle their dispute over the eastern Mediterranean militarily, the minister said, saying there was a readiness for dialogue, Reuters reported.
“I hear from all sides that the readiness for dialogue exists, and that is why we regard it as achievable,” said Maas at a news conference with his Turkish counterpart after earlier visiting Greece.
“I remain convinced that if both sides start direct talks with honest intentions, we can find a solution that can be acceptable to both sides,” he said.
Maas also said ties between the European Union and Turkey were at a crossroads and that it would be clear by the end of the year where relations were heading.