"The war in Ukraine constitutes a wake-up call for Europe. It is essential for Europe to strengthen its strategic autonomy and defense capabilities, taking into account its Atlantic dimension. "There can’t be European security without the contribution of NATO", underlined Alternate Minister of Foreign Affairs, Miltiadis Varvitsiotis, in a conversation themed "Geopolitics in the Mediterranean and the security in Europe” with journalist Katerina Sokou, on the second day of the 3rd South East Europe & East Med Conference organized by the Delphi Economic Forum in Washington D.C..
In particular, the Alternate Minister pointed out that as the environment and security architecture are changing globally, Europe's bonds with NATO are essential and are deemed more necessary than ever to ensure security and stability on our continent. Mr. Varvitsiotis noted that "we should not overlook our Atlantic dimension, but that does not mean we have to abandon our vision of strengthening Europe's strategic autonomy". On the other hand, the war in Ukraine has created a huge humanitarian crisis while Greece has already welcomed the first refugees.
Asked about the relationship and prospects of the Eastern Mediterranean 3 + 1 Alliance Scheme, the Alternate Minister said that it is a scheme based on common values and principles while it is of strategic importance for the European continent’s energy efficiency.
Regarding the role of Turkey in the security crisis we are going through, Mr. Varvitsiotis underscored that Turkey’s participation in the imposition of sanctions against Russia is important so that the sanctions are even more effective. As for Greek-Turkish relations, he noted that "the recent meeting of the Greek Prime Minister with the Turkish President was quite productive, however there is still much to be done". "Turkey should, first and foremost, refrain from provocative conduct", the Alternate Minister stressed, adding that the territorial sovereignty of the Greek islands is non-negotiable.
Earlier, Mr. Varvitsiotis participated in a working breakfast, organized by the "Center for European Policy Analysis" (CEPA) Think Tank, themed "The future of US-Europe Defense Cooperation". In his remarks, the Alternate minister underscored that the crisis in Ukraine "awakened" the European conscience on the issue of security and acted as a catalyst to strengthen NATO's European security pillar. He also recalled that Greece firmly supports a close cooperation between NATO and the EU, based on the principles of inclusion, reciprocity and transparency, and added that the two organizations can and should play a complementary role in consolidating international peace and security. "An ambitious and confident EU strategic footprint will be to the benefit of transatlantic co-operation", Mr. Varvitsiotis pointedly said.
It is noted that the discussion was also attended by representatives of the US Departments of State and Defense, as well as representatives of prestigious think tanks and companies.
March 15, 2022