Tuesday's earthquake came at a very interesting moment in Greek-Turkish relations.

This set of conflicts has had a large effect on Greek-Turkish relations since the 1970s.

Greek-Turkish relations had been improving slowly for several months, but it took earthquakes in both countries to push them toward a more heart-felt friendship.

The new tone has also spread to Greek-Turkish relations, which for Athens more than for Ankara, remains the top diplomatic priority.

A Greek Government spokesman, Dimitris Reppas, said Turkey's action showed "an intention to damage Greek-Turkish relations."

Greek-Turkish relations were discussed at these encounters, according to the Archbishop's aides.

While the withdrawal was meant to be a "good faith initiative" for the improvement of Greek-Turkish relations, the Greek press protested its removal.

Venizelos had expressed his will to improve the bilateral Greek-Turkish relations even before his electoral victory, in a speech in Thessaloniki (July 23, 1928).

We must bide our time and ensure that this negotiating framework can operate, particularly bearing in mind the currently positive Greek-Turkish relations.

And, I would add, Mr Gem says the same about Greek-Turkish relations.