The Aigaio has been conducting research work starting near Lesvos and extending to Rhodes for the planned laying of cables to interconnect the Greek islands and the mainland in two stages. The research is part of Greece’s future energy infrastructure development.
Greek authorities have noted Ankara’s contrasting reactions to the Aigaio's operations compared to those involving the Italian vessel Ievoli Relume. Last summer, Ievoli Relume conducted research for the Greece-Cyprus interconnection project (Great Sea Interconnector) between the islands of Kasos and Karpathos. At that time, Turkey had effectively halted the project, deploying at least five warships, with the situation only being resolved after negotiations between Athens, Ankara, and Rome.
Next week, the Italian vessel will resume its work in the area between Rhodes, Kasos, and Karpathos. With a meeting scheduled between Greek Foreign Minister George Gerapetritis and Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan in Athens on Friday, Greece has been closely monitoring the research activities. These sensitive projects are being carefully coordinated by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, with Greece's naval forces deploying small ships, gunboats, and coastal patrol vessels to escort the Aigaio.
In response, Turkey’s naval forces have issued navigational advisories and sent a naval unit similar to Greece’s. To maintain stability, Athens has set protocols for both Greek and Turkish naval vessels operating in the area, aiming to prevent direct confrontations. The Greek Foreign Ministry has also prepared a diplomatic response script for the Aigaio's crew to address any Turkish queries in a calm and professional manner.
