April 26, 1952
THREE YEARS BEFORE THE VANDALISM: (From a commentary in Kathimerini): «Today the Greek people are preparing to welcome the Turkish prime minister, Mr Menderes, Foreign Minister Kioprulu, and the military leaders accompanying them in the spirit of what is already a strong Greek-Turkish friendship. During their few days in Greece, the distinguished guests will have the opportunity to see that the seeds of friendship sown 22 years ago have already taken root in Greece among the people and not simply as official policy. In the time that has passed since then, cold logic and a realistic appraisal of events has given expression to certain feelings in the direction of mutual interest. A closer rapprochement, broader cooperation and solidarity beween the two neighboring states has been made mandatory by the peculiar international conditions of the postwar era. Common dangers, common interests and needs have given Greece and Turkey a common destiny. In the emerging postwar world, the two states are obliged to help and complement each other. It cannot be any different. This is the Greek view, one which the Greek people share, and we have no reason to believe that it is not shared by our neighbors. This visit by the prime minister and foreign minister of Turkey is a great opportunity to boost the strong bonds that bind the two countries.
