ANKARA, Feb. 23 (Xinhua) -- Greek F-16 fighter jets "harassed" a Turkish research ship in the international waters of the Aegean Sea and Turkey reciprocated accordingly, Turkish Defense Minister Hulusi Akar said on Tuesday.

Four Greek F-16 fighter jets "harassed" the TCG Cesme research ship, which was carrying out seismic studies in the international waters of the Aegean Sea, Turkey's semi-official Anadolu Agency reported.

"It was one of the frequently conducted harassments by our Greek friends. Necessary retaliation was given in line with the rules," Akar told reporters.

The Greek move "does not fit with good neighborhood," the minister said, adding that Turkey is "always in favor of international law and dialogue."

Greece's Defense Ministry denied that its fighter jets harassed the Turkish vessel, saying that its jets were conducting a military drill at some distance from the vessel.

The latest incident came weeks after the two feuding NATO allies resumed talks later last month for the first time in five years over resolving their maritime disputes. Enditem

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