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Greece Extends Visa Scheme for Turkish Nationals Visiting Aegean Islands
Visa Extension for Another Year
Greece has extended by one year a visa scheme allowing Turkish nationals to visit 12 islands in the Aegean Sea for up to a week. The program, initially set to expire in April 2025, will now continue until April 2026 following approval by the European Commission.
Background of the Agreement
The visa scheme was first introduced in December 2023 as part of efforts by Greece and Turkey to improve diplomatic relations. The agreement permits Turkish visitors and their families to travel to designated Greek islands without needing a full Schengen visa.
Expanding the List of Eligible Islands
Originally covering ten islands, the program has now been expanded to include Patmos and Samothrace, increasing the total number of participating islands to twelve. The original islands in the scheme include Rhodes, Kos, Samos, Lesbos, Chios, Leros, Symi, Lemnos, Kalymnos, and Kastelorizo.
Impact and Reception
Since the scheme’s launch in March 2024, more than 100,000 visas have been issued to Turkish travelers. The European Commission has acknowledged the success of the initiative, noting its positive role in strengthening ties between the two nations.
Diplomatic Implications and Future Talks
Greece and Turkey, despite being NATO allies, have historically faced disputes over maritime boundaries, airspace, and the divided island of Cyprus. However, the two countries have committed to improving relations, including exploring discussions on maritime demarcation. A high-level cooperation council, established in 2010, is scheduled to meet later this year to further diplomatic dialogue.
Looking Ahead
The visa extension reflects ongoing efforts to enhance people-to-people connections and tourism between Greece and Turkey. It remains to be seen how this initiative will influence broader diplomatic relations between the two neighbors.
“Greece Extends Visa Scheme for Turkish Nationals Visiting Aegean Islands” “Greece Extends Visa Scheme for Turkish Nationals Visiting Aegean Islands”