Exploratory contacts with a deadline

In the wake of last month's dangerous escalation of tension between Greece and Turkey, the two countries have laid the groundwork for exploratory contacts on the terms and conditions of a possible resumption of a dialogue, with Berlin having played a pivotal role in the rapprochement. 

In contrast to 2016, when similar exploratory contacts were launched, this time around the two sides have a deadline, the end of August, to reach common ground. 

The Greek government has repeatedly stated that the only issues under discussion in a dialogue must be the continental shelf and maritime zones. Turkey has insisted that this dialogue should include a much wider range of issues.

The head of the diplomatic office of Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis, Eleni Sourani, and the adviser of Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, Ibrahim Kalin, reportedly have an open...