Ankara accused Athens of backing terrorist organizations following the ruling of a Greek court Friday that refused to extradite a suspect wanted on terrorism charges to Turkey.
In a statement, Turkish Foreign Ministry said the decision, which was a “new example of backing terrorist organizations”, did not match Greece’s international responsibility on combating terrorism, and it did not suit “good neighborly relations.”
“In the next period, we expect Greek judiciary to make legal and fair decisions far from political pressures,” it added.
Mehmet Dogan, 60, was one of eight Turkish citizens detained in December shortly before an historic state visit by Turkey’s leader, Recep Tayyip Erdogan.
Ankara has requested the extradition of at least two of the accused. The second extradition request will be heard in court next Tuesday, Feb. 6.
The court said it accepted Dogan had already been recognized as a political refugee by France and said this did not allow for his return to Turkey.
People’s Liberation Party-Front (DHKP-C)
Greek police earlier released photos and names of the suspected members of the Revolutionary People’s Liberation Party-Front (DHKP-C) terrorist group, who were detained late last year.
Suspects from the ultra-left outfit — which has been responsible for a string of bombings and assassinations in Turkey — were allegedly planning an attack during Erdogan’s visit to Athens.
The Greek authorities did not confirm the plot, but said the suspects were “not cooperating” with authorities.
Forged passports and IDs were found in the suspects’ possession during raids, as well as bomb-making materials and firearms.
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