Greek-Turkish relations through a different prism

The maritime border agreement signed between Greece and Italy on Tuesday is proof of the benefits of a constructive spirit of cooperation. It may sound utopian, but this deal could serve as a model in Greece's dealings with Turkey.

Such an effort would need to start with good intentions. Foreign policy officials in Ankara often say that the disputes between Greece and Turkey should not be allowed to transcend their technical dimensions and be blown out of proportion by emotional and impulsive reactions. They blame this climate on Greek "obsessions" and the media.

It is partly true that much of the baggage in Greek-Turkish relations is emotional, but this is not only the case in Greece. Turkey has often exploited public sentiment over the Aegean and Cyprus to deflect attention away from domestic matters. The present situation, during which Turkish President Recep...