US initiative on East Med tension to focus on EEZs

An anticipated US diplomatic initiative aimed at easing mounting tension between NATO allies Greece and Turkey in the Eastern Mediterranean is expected to focus on the issue of exclusive economic zones, amid concerns regarding the maritime borders agreement signed between Ankara and the Tripoli-based Libyan government.

America's intention to get involved at the diplomatic level was confirmed in comments to Kathimerini on Wednesday by US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo at a dinner he and Vice President Mike Pence held in honor of Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis' visit to Washington, where the Greek premier also held talks with US President Donald Trump.

The initiative is expected to start soon, according to sources, with Deputy Assistant Secretary of State Matthew Palmer planning a visit to Turkey next month, ahead of an already scheduled trip to Greece for the...