Marios Iliopoulos, Binali Yildirim, former Prime Minister of Turkey, Seajets, President of Turkey, Tayyip Erdogan

Marios Iliopoulos met with the Turkish Foreign Minister, Mevlut Cavusoglu, on 15 February in Ankara to express his practical support and solidarity with the neighbouring country and to announce the donation of 1 million euros in solidarity to support those affected by the earthquakes. In this context, he also had a meeting with the former Prime Minister of Turkey, Binali Yildirim, and a brief conversation with the President of Turkey, Tayyip Erdogan.

Marios Iliopoulos, Seajets, Binali Yildirim, former Prime Minister of Turkey

Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu said during joint statements: “Thank you very much for your very touching and meaningful gesture, which we greatly appreciate. This donation symbolizes the solidarity, respect, love and humanitarianism that it is important for Turkey and Greece to have with each other. This move is very important and constructive for both countries.” In conclusion, Mr. Cavusoglu again thanked Mr. Iliopoulos and Seajets.

Marios Iliopoulos said: “In ancient times, when Greece cried, Rome was not happy. Today, when Turkey cries, Greece cannot rejoice. Tens of thousands of our fellow human beings lost their lives in the powerful earthquake that struck Kachramanmaras and Gaziantep and many more today are suffering from this disaster. Solidarity, Love, Respect and Humanity. We are donating 1 million euros to support homeless families. Greece and Turkey in a peaceful and friendly framework can be the power of the Eastern Mediterranean with the qualities of Polyindustry, Diplomacy and the Geographical positions of both countries. In natural disasters we all have to be present, in Solidarity, because the Universe is watching everything and decides. We wish and dream of a friendly and profitable relationship for the Greek and Turkish people, since we have a lot to separate us in the past, but in the present we have a lot to unite us, for a constructive future for both peoples. I, my family and Seajets have laid the first foundation stone in this direction”.

Returning to Greece, Mr. Iliopoulos said “Inspired by the day of love and the immense love my father and I have for the Aegean Sea, we will proceed with the donation of a significant amount to the islands served by Seajets for the protection of Health and the improvement and development of Education!” Further information on this issue will be announced at a press conference to be held on 23 February 2023.