Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu stated that Greece, contrary to international agreements, transferred weapons to 16 out of 23 islands with demilitarized status in the Aegean Sea. Cavusoglu stated this when speaking at a panel entitled "Turkey's Foreign Policy in the Aegean Sea and Eastern Mediterranean," organized by Turkey's Political, Economic and Social Research Foundation (SETA), Anadolu News Agency reported.

Cavusoglu stressed that arming islands with non-military status is a threat to Turkey's security.

Ankara calls on Greece to comply with international law and stop arming the demilitarized islands in the Aegean Sea, Cavusoglu said.

The Turkish minister recalled that Ankara made efforts to restore dialogue mechanisms with Greece in early 2021, but the Greek side failed to show the necessary political will and sincerity.

Cavusoglu noted that Greek officials, in particular Foreign Minister Nikos Dendias, continue making statements against Turkey. Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis' speech to the U.S. Congress was the "last straw," Cavusoglu said.

According to Cavusoglu, there are various reasons pushing Greece to take such actions. Among the main reasons is Turkey's growing influence in the region and around the world, Cavusoglu said.

In addition, statements against Turkey allow local authorities to "score points" in the eyes of society, Cavusoglu said.

The head of Turkish diplomacy noted that Greece continues to be a "safe port" for terrorist organizations, but has an inhumane attitude toward illegal migrants who want to reach the Greek islands.