Greek MEP Fredis Beleris (PPE) has submitted a parliamentary question to the EU's foreign policy chief, urging the European Commission to adopt diplomatic measures and sanctions against Turkey for what he calls a 'new provocation' concerning fishing maps in the Aegean Sea. The move aims to protect Greek fishers and EU maritime borders, impacting Greek fishing communities, Turkish authorities, EU fisheries regulators, and the broader EU-Turkey relationship.
The question, filed on 23 April 2026 under Rule 144, follows a Turkish Foreign Ministry press release on 21 April that accused Greece of imposing fishing restrictions beyond its jurisdiction. Beleris argues that Greece's directives apply only to its territorial waters and areas of Greek jurisdiction, while international waters are governed by binding treaties. He claims Turkey's statements undermine Greek and EU sovereign rights.
Beleris raises two concrete asks: first, that the Commission consider measures including diplomatic steps and sanctions to enforce the Common Fisheries Policy and combat illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing; second, that the EU defend its maritime borders and interests in the Aegean and eastern Mediterranean. The question does not specify numerical targets or deadlines but calls for a firm EU response.
The MEP's policy orientation leans toward stronger EU enforcement and protection of member state sovereignty, reflecting a cleavage between EU integration and national sovereignty versus Turkish assertiveness. It also highlights a trade-off between consumer protection (sustainable fish stocks) and business competitiveness for Greek fishers facing unfair competition from Turkish vessels not bound by EU rules.
The Vice-President of the Commission / High Representative is expected to reply within approximately six weeks. The answer will signal the EU's policy direction on maritime disputes with Turkey and its willingness to use sanctions in the fisheries sector.