Saturday’s UNSC Press Conference

Yesterday, Al Jazeera, BBC and The Washington Post teamed up to conduct a press conference with the UNSC’s delegates from Lybia, UK, Greece and Turkey. We got some answers on the pending questions that were open on the debate.

You may see this exclusive interview with Washington Post’s questions below. For the readers: (Q) stands for questions and (A) for answers. GREECE

Q: Why do you think your proposal reaches a middle term for both countries? Which concessions do you consider that are being made on Greece’s behalf?

A: The demilitarization is done in the interest of both countries. It is done to improve security conditions on the region. However, this will only be possible in case Turkey signs UNCLOS III and recognizes the unlawfulness of their occupation. The concessions on behalf of Greece would be the demilitarization itself, that being the withdrawal of hostile and active troops on the Aegean Sea.

Q: Do you consider that the coup d’état on Egypt will affect the approval of this proposal?

A: The desire is to maintain peace and economic relations. Although it is a real shame to lose such a valuable ally on our cause, we do not think this will block the resolution from being approved due to the general support that the proposal is receiving in the UNSC.

UNITED KINGDOM

Q: Do you have hopes that we will find a nation to mediate this conflict? Who do you think is the best candidate for this function?

A: Yes! I think that beside all of the difficulties on these delicate negotiations, we may reach a consensus tomorrow. As for a candidate for the mediator function, I support Norway’s bid.

Turkey:

Q: What is Turkey’s official position on the Israeli attack against the ship Kirmizi Deniz that carried supplies to Gaza?

A: It was a clear attempt from Israel to maintain their politics on the region and control the security balance. Turkey will be ready to defend itself and will not tolerate such violations.