It’s been a long time that we are seeking dialogue with Turkey. But its government keeps escalating the tensions in the Eastern Mediterranean over maritime rights. Germany, on the other hand, keeps exporting submarines to the country – submarines which could eventually be used against an EU member state. That’s why my Greek colleague Maria Spyraki and I have initiated a letter calling on the German government to immediately suspend the export of these submarines, its components and spare parts, as well as all related maintenance activities to Turkey.

All in all, 53 Greek and German Members of the European Parliament have signed the letter, which was sent before the European Council meeting on 10 December. At the meeting, EU leaders will discuss the situation in the Eastern Mediterranean and relations with Turkey.

Turkey has threatened military action against EU Member States in the Eastern Mediterranean. There is thus a real danger that Turkey uses German submarines in this conflict. Despite Turkey’s threats, no EU Member State has so far stopped arms exports to Turkey.