In a significant win for Greece, the European Union Intellectual Property Office (EUIPO) has cancelled Turkey's controversial "Turkaegean" trademark.
The trademark, registered in 2021 by Turkey's tourism agency, was widely seen as an attempt to undermine Greece's association with the Aegean Sea.
The Greek government, along with the Hellenic Industrial Property Organisation (OBI), had petitioned the EUIPO to revoke the trademark, arguing that it was commercially detrimental to Greek interests and reflected Turkey's geopolitical ambitions in the region.
"The decision is a vindication of Greek positions," said Development Minister Takis Theodorikakos. "The government will always assert the country’s rights by using every legal means available."
The "Turkaegean" trademark had sparked outrage in Greece when it was first announced, with critics accusing the government of failing to protect national interests.
The EUIPO's decision effectively blocks Turkey from using the trademark in the European Union, dealing a blow to its tourism campaign targeting European markets.
While Turkey has the option to appeal the decision, the cancellation represents a significant victory for Greece in the ongoing dispute over the Aegean Sea. It underscores the importance of protecting national identity and cultural heritage in the face of geopolitical challenges.