Historical truth, self-criticism and abandonment of revisionism are preconditions for a sincere dialogue and combating of nationalistic extremism, for the reconciliation and peaceful coexistence of peoples and states.
This was the political stance chosen by Eleftherios Venizelos when he proposed Mustafa Kemal Ataturk as a nominee for the Nobel Peace Prize. And this remains an important part of the significant legacy left to us by the great Greek politician, regarding Greek-Turkish relations as well as other issues.
In contrast, Turkey is choosing to make yet another misguided effort to distort history, ignoring the fact that, like all of us, it must acknowledge historical truth. Everyone must come to terms with their history to ensure that events like the genocide of the Pontic Greeks never happen again.
May 20, 2020