The message that the United States encourages all states to resolve maritime delimitation issues in accordance with International Law was issued by the State Department regarding the possibility of Greek territorial waters being extended to 12 nautical miles south of Crete.
Responding to a related question from Greek correspondents, a spokesperson of the State Department noted that Washington's position on respecting the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all countries remains the same.
"There is no change in the long-term position of the US. We believe that the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all countries must be respected and protected," he said.
"As a matter of principle, we encourage all states to resolve maritime delimitation issues peacefully in accordance with International Law.
"While the United States generally does not take sides on other states' maritime border disputes, we call on all parties to refrain from any actions that risk escalating tensions in the Eastern Mediterranean.
"We continue to encourage our allies and partners to work together to maintain peace and security in the region and to resolve disputes diplomatically. We urge all our allies to avoid threats and provocative rhetoric that will only increase tension and help no one."
It was preceded by the statements of the representative of the Turkish president, İbrahim Kalın.
As he said, in case of expansion of the territorial waters of Greece, even in Crete, there will be serious consequences.
Answering a journalist's question about what Turkey's response will be if Greece expands its territorial waters in Crete, Kalın said: "The foreign minister also said recently that any extension of more than 6 miles, not 12 miles, will face the direct objection, opposition and fierce resistance from Turkey."
"Let's make it clear. Leave 12 miles, it is not possible to accept any extension over 6, 7, 8 and 9 miles. And this will have serious consequences for Greece. We wait and hope that they will not resort to such a path. If they take steps in this direction, we will never leave them unanswered," he said.
Kalın added that, if Greece expands "territorial waters to Crete, our ships will enter the Mediterranean from Greek territorial waters."
"We will not accept it. It is against international law," he concluded.
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