Diplomacy and Law Seminars – I
The Balance of Lausanne: Evaluation of the Aegean and Eastern Mediterranean Issues
Date: February 19, 2026
Time: 12:30–13:30
Venue: Library Art Gallery
Speaker: Ertuğrul Apakan (Retired Ambassador and Former Undersecretary of Foreign Affairs)
Moderator: Prof. Dr. Ece Göztepe
Abstract:
In the first of a three-session series of talks addressing the Cyprus issue, assessments will be made on the political and legal aspects of the Aegean, Eastern Mediterranean and Cyprus issues. The historical background of these issues, which have preoccupied Turkey and Greece for many years, dates back to the 19th century. The Treaty of Lausanne (1923) established a political and legal common ground that balanced the rights and interests of both countries. Furthermore, the Montreux Convention (1936) laid the foundation for security and stability in the Black Sea. In this context, it is useful to examine the political and legal arguments put forward by the two countries regarding the Aegean issues. Similarly, “What are the latest developments in the efforts to find a negotiated solution to the Cyprus issue? Is there any possibility of a solution based on the realities on the island?” will be questioned.
The language of the event is Turkish.
Students who attend will receive GE 250/251 credit.