The Minister of Foreign Affairs, George Gerapetritis to his intervention in conversation with Anthony Blinkenwho was participating in the ESS via video conference, welcomed the opportunity to exchange views with the US Secretary of State, following the NATO Summit in Vilnius.

Mr. Gerapetritis, as noted by diplomatic sources, emphasized that for Greece, transatlantic unity is a necessity, especially at this time and that the defense of Ukraine is a matter of principle. He noted that “there can be no asterisks in the observance of fundamental principles, such as the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all states but also those enshrined in the Charter of the United Nations.” He also mentioned that Greece is contributing to the effort, providing Ukraine with significant assistance.

Referring to Greek-Turkish relations, the Foreign Minister pointed out that the day after the Vilnius Summit, Greece and Turkey will prepare the next steps of cooperation. Greece is willing, he stressed, to build on the positive climate, but there needs to be a similar response.

He then referred to the announcement by Prime Minister Mr. Mitsotakis last week that Greece will contribute 2.5 million euros to the Total Aid Package for Ukraine and emphasized that mainly through the port of Alexandroupolis, Greece ensures the rapid development of Allied forces on the eastern side of NATO, as well as the diversification of energy supplies, not only for Greece, but also for the countries in the immediate neighborhood, especially through the construction of LNG terminals, as well as electrical interconnections.

The Minister of Foreign Affairs emphasized that our country promotes stability and prosperity in the Western Balkans, supporting them in their Euro-Atlantic path and that it offers tangible support, such as air policing, as well as technical assistance.

Mr. Gerapetritis said that “we consider our country a bridging force in Europe’s Southern Neighborhood. “For example,” he continued, “our relations with Israel have reached an extraordinary level, while we have developed close ties and cooperation with Egypt, Jordan, Saudi Arabia and so many others. We hope that all countries in our region, without exception, will embrace the same spirit and act accordingly.”

Finally, the Foreign Minister referred to the Greek candidacy for a Non-Permanent Member position in the UN Security Council and mentioned that Greece has already approached a significant number of countries in Africa, Asia and Latin America.