NATO: Turkey, Greece agree to talks about Mediterranean tensions

ANKARA, Turkey — NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg says Greece and Turkey have agreed to start “technical talks” aimed at helping to reduce the risks of military incidents and accidents in the eastern Mediterranean.

In a statement posted today on the alliance’s website, Stoltenberg says he spoke to the Turkish and Greek leaders, whose countries have been locked in a tense standoff over oil and gas exploration rights in the region.

“Greece and Turkey are valued Allies, and NATO is an important platform for consultations on all issues that affect our shared security,” the statement reads. “I remain in close touch with all concerned Allies to find a solution to the tensions in the spirit of NATO solidarity.”

There is no immediate confirmation from Ankara or Athens and it isn’t immediately clear when the talks will begin.

— AP