The IMEC, a proposed shipping and rail network connecting India, the Middle East, and Europe, is generating significant geopolitical tension between Greece and Turkey. The project involves routes through the Mediterranean Sea, which includes waters with disputed maritime boundaries.
Turkey vehemently opposes the IMEC, citing its exclusion and the route's passage through areas with unresolved maritime boundaries with Greece. Turkey argues that the most efficient route must pass through its territory and emphasizes its significant role as a production and trade center.
Concerns have been raised about the IMEC's potential to encircle Turkey and limit its access to the Mediterranean Sea. Turkey's military power and strategic coastline in the region have been highlighted in this context.
The lack of clearly defined maritime boundaries between Greece and Turkey in the Aegean Sea, stemming from the 1923 Treaty of Lausanne, is a key point of contention. Greece, citing the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), claims extensive maritime zones, a claim contested by Turkey.
The IMEC is viewed by some as a tool to counter China's Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) and to potentially contain Iran. The United States' involvement is considered to be in line with broader strategies to manage relations between Israel and Saudi Arabia and to limit the influence of China and Iran.
The IMEC's potential impact on trade between India and Europe is significant, as it offers an alternative to routes that are affected by existing geopolitical tensions (such as relations between India and Pakistan). The Adani Group's involvement, particularly regarding port management in India, Israel, and potential future acquisition of Greek ports, underscores the economic dimensions of the project.
Despite the existing tensions, some experts believe that Turkey could still participate in the IMEC if its interests are considered and addressed. Furthermore, recent improvements in Turkey's relations with countries like the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Israel suggest a potential easing of the geopolitical situation.