The Alternate Minister of Foreign Affairs today met with the Irish Ambassador, Orla O’Hanrahan.
The talks focused on European issues. There was particular emphasis on Brexit, the migration issue and the accession prospects of the countries of the Western Balkans.
Ms. O’Hanrahan expressed Ireland’s satisfaction at Greece’s support for Ireland’s positions on the Brexit issue. The Alternate Minister stressed that the member states of the EU need to show solidarity with Ireland regarding the backstop solution provided for in the Withdrawal Agreement.
Mr. Varvitsiotis also briefed Ambassador O’Hanrahan regarding the worrying increase in migration flows that has been seen of late on Greece’s borders, and the situation in the reception centres. He also referred to Greece’s positions on the Multiannual Financial Framework for 2021-2027, and in particular with regard to the distribution of Cohesion Policy and Common Agricultural Policy resources.
The talks took place in a friendly atmosphere and provided the opportunity for both sides to reaffirm the very good level of bilateral relations and the shared desire to further deepen cooperation within the EU.
Finally, Ms. O’Hanrahan conveyed to the Alternate Minister an invitation from his Irish counterpart to visit Dublin for bilateral consultations.
September 12, 2019