His reflection on the delimitation of marine zones and Greece-Turkey relations was expressed by the Minister of Foreign Affairs, among others. George Gerapetritisspeaking to the news network “Fox News”. The Greek Foreign Minister also referred to the situation in Syria, Greece-US relations, but also to the plan to develop the new Indian-Middle-Europe corridor, which described as “major importance”.

Syria: “The new regime remains committed to international law”

Mr Gerapetritis said he had the opportunity to meet with the transitional president of Syria and the Syrian Foreign Minister during a tour of the wider area. He visited seven areas in seven days, ending in Syria, Damascus.

“The goal is to see a prosperous Syria”, he said. “There was a horrible 13 -year situation. The country has suffered extensive disasters. “

“What we need to do now is, first of all, to develop durable institutions that will be included. And that means that all ethnic and religious communities must be included in governance. The rule of law and fundamental human rights must be guaranteed for all citizens. And of course, to ensure respect for international law, and in particular the international law of the sea »the minister stressed.

At the same time, Mr Gerapetritis referred to the sanctions imposed on Syria, and expressed the view that there should be relaxation of these sanctions. “The truth is that at the moment there is a series of sanctions against Syria. We argue that in order for Syria to get a new perspective, a plan to reconstitute Syrian ownership is needed. That is why we suggest that there must be relaxation of these sanctions. However, this lifting should be done gradually and in a reversible way. “he said.

And stressed: “It is extremely important for Europe, as well as the United States, to closely monitor the situation in Syria. We must encourage the new regime to remain committed to international law. And for this reason, the international community should provide substantial assistance. “

The doctrine of “blue homeland” concerns us

Mr Gerapetritis reiterated that Greece is respecting international law and international sea law and pointed out that steps have been taken over the last two years towards normalizing Greece-Turkey relations.

“The doctrine of ‘blue homeland’ is concerned. It is a doctrine that contradicts international law. Greece respects international law and international sea law. We are Contracting Party of the Convention on the International Law of the Sea of ​​1982 »he said.

And continued: “The truth is that in the last two years steps have been taken towards normalizing our relationships. We have signed an agreement on good neighborly relationships. We have coordinated on issues of irregular migration. “

“We have also minimized Turkey’s violations of Greek airspace. There are some steps in the positive agenda. On the other hand, there must be an important step on the demarcation of marine zones. “ The Greek Foreign Minister said we haven’t arrived there yet, because “To get there, we must first of all agree to the range of discussion. And the range can be no other than international law.

“Greece is a pillar of stability in the Eastern Mediterranean and the wider region”he ended up.

‘Major’

“As for China, it is our conviction that we must also develop alternative cooperation, alternative routes through other important states,” said Mr. Gerapetritis. “Greece has a strategic alliance with India and we are now discussing the development of the new India-Middle-Europe corridor. This major plan is, I believe, an excellent project to differentiate the routes related to transport, data and energy. “

“Therefore”ended up “I find it important to have a mechanism for control of foreign investment, while at the same time trying to develop our regional synergies with other important states.”

Unanimous states

Concerning our country’s relations with the United States, the Greek Foreign Minister said that “We are unanimous states in terms of foreign policy and security policy”, and stressed that what we need to do is “To further strengthen this relationship, not only in regional, but also worldwide.”

*The interview was given on 28.02.2025 and published on 10.03.2025 at “Fox News”