Αlternate Minister of Foreign Affairs Militiadis Varvitsiotis, received the Finnish Ambassador, Juha Pyykkö, today, 15 July, in his first courtesy visit since taking up his new duties. The Finnish Ambassador's visit was particularly symbolic for European relations, as Finland assumed the Presidency of the Council of the European Union in July.
The discussion focused on issues of European interest and related developments in the EU. Mr. Pyykkö presented the Finnish Presidency’s positions, and the Alternate Minister set out the priorities of the new Greek government. He assured the Finnish Ambassador of the European orientation served by this government and its goals for deepening the Union. He noted the challenges with regard to the EU’s relations with Turkey and the management of the migration issue. He also highlighted the challenge of formulating the new Multiannual Financial Framework and expressed support for the Finnish Presidency’s initiative for strengthening rule of law.
July 15, 2019