In a country that often gives the impression that it harbours ideations that it is unique or “brotherless”, it is necessary for one to recall with palpable examples that it does not stand alone.

The most recent example is the decision of the governments of France and Italy to send one frigate each to Cyprus, which demonstrates the unlawful activity of Ankara in the eastern Mediterranean is not simply a Greek-Turkish affair.

That reminds one that Greece must seek the broadest possible support in Europe.

It must pursue and achieve a clear condemnation of Ankara at the December 12-13 EU summit.

The summit of the heads of state and government is the highest organ of policy and decision-making in the EU.

That condemnation sends a clear message to Turkey but it also is a strong message of solidarity with a member-state.

Greece needs such a diplomatic victory to rid itself of delusions of national loneliness.

It is also necessary to self-confidently implement a national policy that aims to defuse the crisis and create an environment of mutual trust.

The objective is always good neighbourly relations, and it is for this reason alone that Greece seeks the aid of its Europan partners and allies.