Good day.
Cyprus Issue
The Minister of Foreign Affairs, George Gerapetritis, met yesterday, Wednesday June 17, with the Personal Envoy of the United Nations Secretary-General οn Cyprus, María Ángela Holguín Cuéllar.
The Personal Envoy’s visit followed her contacts with the President of the Republic of Cyprus and the Turkish Cypriot leader.
Mr. Gerapetritis expressed Greece’s support for the efforts of the UN Secretary-General, Antonio Guterres, towards finding a comprehensive, just and viable solution to the Cyprus Issue, on the basis of a Bizonal, Bicommunal Federation and within the framework of the United Nations Security Council Resolutions, and the European acquis.
The Minister of Foreign Affairs stressed the importance of maintaining the momentum and level of engagement that has developed on the Cyprus Issue over the past two and a half years. Greece in coordination with the Republic of Cyprus, remains ready to contribute constructively to the next steps, aiming to achieve the resumption of talks on the basis of the agreed framework, under the auspices of the UN.
Iran
We welcome the signing of the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding between the United States and Iran. We congratulate all those who contributed to achieving this particularly important diplomatic development. This constitutes a significant opportunity to restore regional stability and strengthen the global economy.
The next step is to conclude negotiations on the individual aspects of the agreement and ensure its rapid, full, and effective implementation.
The main concern is restoring unconditional freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz, as well as continuing efforts to establish sustainable peace, security, and regional stability.
Libya
The Minister of Foreign Affairs, George Gerapetritis, had a meeting on Monday, June 15, with the Deputy Commander-in-Chief of the General Command of the Libyan Arab Armed Forces, Saddam Haftar.
This was Saddam Haftar’s first visit to Athens, which follows the second consecutive visit of the Minister of Foreign Affairs to Benghazi, on March 28, and confirms the common will to further strengthen cooperation and communication channels with Eastern Libya.
The meeting took place in a positive atmosphere.
The main points of discussion were:
- Economic cooperation and promoting investments in sectors such as energy and constructions. The direct Benghazi-Athens air connection was also raised at the meeting and a mutual will to upgrade cooperation in the transport sector was expressed,
- On irregular migration, they have agreed to work together to reduce flows to Crete and Gavdos. They also referred to the importance of continuing training programs for Libyan Coast Guard officers in Greece,
- Greece's role as a reliable interlocutor in the European Union and the United Nations Security Council was highlighted. The Minister of Foreign Affairs reiterated Greece's position in favor of a political solution to the Libyan issue, without foreign interference,
- Regarding maritime zones, the Minister of Foreign Affairs emphasized that Greece's priority remains the delimitation of an Exclusive Economic Zone with Libya, as a genuinely neighboring country with opposing coasts, based on the International Law of the Sea.
Furthermore, the Greek delegation, led by Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Ambassador Alexandra Papadopoulou, traveled to Tripoli on June 10 for the second round of technical talks on the delimitation of the Exclusive Economic Zone. The talks were constructive, the next round will be held in Athens. The two sides reiterated their commitment to continue the constructive dialogue on the basis of International Law, as well as to further promote bilateral cooperation in a wide range of issues of common interest.
Ambassador Alexandra Papadopoulou also met with the acting Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Government of National Unity of Libya, Al Taher Salem Al Baour.
On June 11, the Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs met at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs with the Secretary General of the General Command of the Libyan Arab Armed Forces, General Al-Tamimi.
Extraordinary meeting of the United Nations Security Council on the humanitarian situation in Gaza
Following the request of Greece, with the support of all elected member states of the United Nations Security Council, an extraordinary meeting of the United Nations Security Council will be held today, Thursday, June 18, on the humanitarian situation in the Gaza Strip and on the Palestinian question.
In her statement, the Permanent Representative of Greece, Ambassador Aglaia Balta, is expected to reiterate that Greece’s priority remains the alleviation of the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, through the provision of large-scale, unhindered and unconditional delivery of humanitarian aid to the civilians in the area.
The transition to and full implementation of the second phase of the Peace Plan based on United Nations Security Council Resolution 2803 is essential.
We reiterate the long-standing Greek position that peace in the region is only possible through the revival of a credible political process and the creation of a clear political horizon for the Palestinians that will lead to the two-state solution, which is supported by the overwhelming majority of the international community that aspires to a Middle East whose inhabitants can live in dignity and peace.
Western Balkans
On June 12, following his announced initiative regarding the Western Balkans, the Minister of Foreign Affairs paid a visit to Serbia. There, he met with his Serbian counterpart Marko Đurić and was received by the country's President and Prime Minister, Mr. Aleksandar Vučić and Mr. Đuro Macut respectively.
The objective of the Minister of Foreign Affairs' visits was to:
- Confirm Greece's strong political commitment to the accession process of the Western Balkans, 23 years after the Thessaloniki Agenda, in light of the signing of the Delphi Declaration in April 2026,
- Emphasize the firm commitment of Greek foreign policy to this goal, especially in view of the assumption of the Presidency of the Council of the European Union by Greece during the second half of 2027,
- Actively support the European perspective of the Western Balkans, by providing expertise aimed at strengthening the reform efforts of the partners in the region.
Türkiye
On the sidelines of the South-East European Cooperation Process (SEECP) Summit, Mr. Gerapetritis had a meeting with the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Türkiye, Hakan Fidan.
The discussion focused on, inter alia, the course of transatlantic relations in view of the NATO Summit in July, regional developments, with emphasis on the situation in the broader Middle East and the Eastern Mediterranean, as well as developments on the Cyprus issue.
The two Ministers also discussed issues of bilateral interest and agreed to keep the channels of communication open.
Patriarch of Jerusalem
On June 8, the Minister of Foreign Affairs met in Athens with His Beatitude Theophilos III, Patriarch of Jerusalem. During the meeting, the Minister of Foreign Affairs reaffirmed the commitment of the Greek State to continue supporting the Patriarchate and working for the protection of Christian populations in Jerusalem and the Middle East and the cultural heritage of the Holy Land. He also underscored the importance of preserving the Status Quo in Jerusalem, stressing that it must be fully respected by all and under any circumstance.
The Minister of Foreign Affairs also highlighted the need for cooperation with the Ecumenical Patriarchate, as well as between the Patriarchates of Alexandria, Antioch and Jerusalem, which collectively bear the responsibility of safeguarding unity and protecting Orthodox Christians.
During the visit, a Memorandum of Cooperation was signed between the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Ministry of Culture and the Patriarchate of Jerusalem on cooperation for the protection and preservation of the material cultural heritage of the Patriarchate.
On June 11, the Minister of Foreign Affairs had a telephone conversation with his Egyptian counterpart, Badr Abdelatty, during which issues related to the strategic partnership between the two countries, as well as regional developments in the Middle East, North Africa and the Eastern Mediterranean region, were discussed.
On June 5, Mr. Gerapetritis held a telephone call with the Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Qatar, Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani. Issues of bilateral interest, among others, the crisis in the broader Middle East region, freedom of navigation, and the safety of ships and crews in the Gulf region were discussed.
Establishment of the post of Permanent Deputy Minister at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs
Among the developments of the previous week, we highlight the establishment of the post of Permanent Deputy Minister at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, in accordance with the fourth clause of Section 1 of article 81 of the Constitution, and the appointment to this post of Ambassador Alexandra Papadopoulou, distinguished Ambassador with many years of experience and profound knowledge in foreign policy issues.
This has been a persistent and longstanding request by the Diplomatic Service staff that ensures institutional continuity and strengthens the standing of the Diplomatic Service.
In fact, the Diplomatic Service Staff Union, in its official announcement, welcomed this legislative initiative of the political leadership to promote this highly essential institutional regulation.
Thank you.
QUESTIONS
M. NICOLAIDOU: Good morning, Myrna Nikolaidou from ESTIA newspaper. I would like to ask, regarding Mr. Gerapetritis’ communication with Mr. Fidan, whether the issue of the much-discussed “blue homeland” bill was raised at all. Also, was there any discussion about a possible meeting between Mr. Gerapetritis and Mr. Fidan on the sidelines of the NATO Summit to be held next month in Türkiye, or any preparations for a meeting between Prime Minister Mitsotakis and President Erdoğan, again on the sidelines of the NATO Summit? On the same subject, I would also like to ask whether you have any information regarding a possible visit by President Trump or another senior U.S. official to Greece before or after the NATO Summit. Thank you very much.
L. ZOCHIOU: With regard to your question regarding the discussion between the Minister of Foreign Affairs and his Turkish counterpart, Mr. Gerapetritis stated that an unwarranted tension has arisen between Greece and Türkiye. He reiterated that unilateral actions by states, contrary to International Law, on matters for which International Law expressly requires or provides for bilateral agreement, are entirely devoid of any legal basis and, consequently, produce no legal effects.
As for NATO, no meeting has been scheduled, at least as far as the Minister of Foreign Affairs is concerned. Regarding the Prime Minister, you will be informed by the Government Spokesperson. Concerning a visit by a U.S. official to Greece, there are currently no official arrangements in place.
CH. KRATSI: Christina Kratsi from ALPHA TV channel. Mr. Gerapetritis made these remarks regarding the bill. What did the Turkish Foreign Minister say? Did he confirm that such a bill exists? Did he acknowledge that its content could potentially create problems? What was his reaction?
L. ZOCHIOU: On matters concerning the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Türkiye, I would kindly ask you to address your questions to the Turkish Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
K. MARGARITIS: Konstantinos Margaritis from AXIA. The day before yesterday, the European Parliament’s annual report, through amendments, recognized the right to extend territorial waters to 12 nautical miles, condemned violations of airspace, and referred to other unlawful actions. Does the Ministry of Foreign Affairs intend to proceed with the extension to 12 nautical miles?
L. ZOCHIOU: Let me begin with a general comment on the European Parliament report. We believe it accurately reflects the current situation in Türkiye. As regards territorial waters, you are aware that this is a matter that concerns Greece exclusively. It is an inalienable right of a sovereign state deriving from International Law, and Greece has stated that it will exercise this right at a time and place of its choosing.
K. MARGARITIS: I am referring specifically to the amendments that were adopted and which facilitate us. Will we make use of these amendments adopted by the European Parliament, or will we simply wait?
L. ZOCHIOU: I will stand by what I have already said.
K. BALI: On a different issue, I have the following question: the Greek Government has welcomed the agreement with Iran. Beyond offering congratulations, is the Government prepared to do anything to support the implementation of this agreement?
L. ZOCHIOU: In relation to which aspect?
K. BALI: For example, would it send assets to the Strait of Hormuz for any form of support, assistance, or mine-clearing operations?
L. ZOCHIOU: The reopening of the Strait of Hormuz and the unconditional restoration of freedom of navigation are absolute priorities. As you know, Greece supports the Franco-British initiative and seeks to play an active role in it. In any case, as you are also aware from the Joint Statement of June 14, which Greece has joined, it is explicitly stated that any such mission would aim to reassure freedom of navigation and would have a strictly defensive character. It will be activated when conditions permit, in full cooperation with the parties concerned. For operational matters, I would refer you to the competent Ministry of National Defense.
S. RISTOVSKA: Since you did not mention the Minister’s schedule, do we have anything specific regarding his visit to North Macedonia? And does tomorrow’s visit to Montenegro and Bosnia and Herzegovina still stand?
L. ZOCHIOU: You are right. As previously announced, tomorrow the Minister of Foreign Affairs will travel to Montenegro and Bosnia and Herzegovina. With regard to the other Western Balkans partners, relevant announcements will follow.
A. TELOPOULOS: Telopoulos from EFIMERIDA TON SYNTAKTON newspaper and iefimerida. It is understandable that the substance of the Turkish Foreign Minister’s response, assuming there was one, cannot be disclosed here. Following the meeting, however, with regard to the bill and the reports surrounding it, is the Ministry of Foreign Affairs more concerned, less concerned, or reassured?
L. ZOCHIOU: Regarding this reported draft bill, which at present is known only through media leaks, I will reiterate that once it is officially published and we have a complete picture, we will respond accordingly. Let me also repeat that we are preparing for all possible scenarios and remain alert.
M. TSILINIKOU: Maria Tsilinikou, from SKAI TV and CNN Greece. Could you comment on Kaja Kallas’ interview, particularly her statement that they are trying to find a balance with Türkiye, that they do not agree with Türkiye, that they are aware of the concerns raised by Member States, and that they intend to raise these issues with our neighboring country? Thank you.
L. ZOCHIOU: We too wish to see complete stability and calm in relations with Türkiye. However, an essential component of such balance must be that Türkiye refrains from threatening EU Member States with war and aligns itself, as a candidate country, with the foreign policy positions of the European Union. Both the conclusions of the European Council and the relevant reports of the European Parliament are absolutely clear and leave no room for doubt.
S. RISTOVSKA: I would like to ask about the Entry/Exit System. Beyond the announcements made by the Ministry of Citizen Protection, has the Ministry of Foreign Affairs taken any decision regarding the exemption of certain countries from the system when entering Greece, as some foreign media outlets reported a few months ago? Thank you.
L. ZOCHIOU: There is no room for deviation from the basic principles of the relevant European Regulation. The Entry/Exit System was established by an EU Regulation; therefore, its implementation is mandatory for Member States participating in the Schengen area. It does indeed involve the collection of biometric data, which we recognize may cause delays at passport control, particularly during periods of high tourist traffic. Taking into account the importance of maintaining and strengthening tourist flows to Greece, the Greek authorities will take the necessary measures, making full use of the provisions of EU legislation, while, of course, fully respecting the relevant European Regulation.
A. FOTAKI: Alexandra Fotaki from in.gr. I would like to ask about the technical talks with Libya: has there been any progress, have we identified any common starting point, what was discussed regarding the Turkish-Libyan memorandum, and was there any discussion with Benghazi on maritime delimitation, given that the Greek Government has stated that such discussions can only take place with Libya’s internationally recognized government? Is there any consideration of a formula that would allow eastern Libya to participate in these discussions? Thank you.
L. ZOCHIOU: Our position regarding the illegal, null and void Turkish-Libyan memorandum of 2019 - which violates International Law and therefore produces no legal effects whatsoever - was expressed at all meetings. As you know, the technical talks with Libya are taking place in Tripoli. Both the first and second rounds of talks were conducted using the same format. However, during the contacts of the Minister of Foreign Affairs and the Deputy Minister with officials from Benghazi, the latter were briefed on developments. As regards your question about a specific format, should there be any new developments, they will be announced.
M. GASIAMIS: Gasiamis from MEGA and TA NEA. My first question is: Is there a specific date for the Libyan delegation's visit to Athens? And the second: What are Athens' expectations from this UN Security Council emergency meeting?
L. ZOCHIOU: As regards the technical talks, I would say that there is a possibility that they will take place in the near future.
As for our expectations regarding the Security Council, we believe that Greece, as a non-permanent member of the United Nations Security Council, has a duty to raise and bring attention to issues of concern to the international community, particularly when they affect its wider neighborhood and regional stability. One of Greece's priorities during its Presidency of the Security Council in May 2025 was the protection of civilians in armed conflict. The humanitarian crisis in Gaza continues to rage. We consider it imperative to continue raising issues that, in our view, require the attention of the international community.
P. MICHOS: Panayiotis Michos from TO MANIFESTO and businessdaily.gr. Following up on my colleague's question, I am not sure I understood. Is Athens discussing maritime zones only with Tripoli, or will it also hold separate talks with Benghazi, as you had indicated in previous briefings for diplomatic correspondents? That is my first question. Secondly, during the two rounds of talks held so far, did officials from Benghazi participate in the Tripoli delegation as observers? And thirdly, what was the substance of Deputy Minister Papadopoulou's meeting with the Libyan General? Thank you.
L. ZOCHIOU: First, regarding the technical talks in Tripoli: There were no officials from Benghazi participating in those talks. The technical committee is composed of representatives of the internationally recognized government, therefore representing Libya. When we refer to maintaining and strengthening channels of communication, we are referring to both sides, and this issue is included in that context. As I mentioned, during the contacts of the Minister of Foreign Affairs and Ms. Papadopoulou, officials from Benghazi were briefed accordingly.
As regards the content of the Deputy Minister's discussion with General Al-Tamimi, the focus was on bilateral cooperation, addressing irregular migration, and maritime zones. The role of Greece within the European Union and the United Nations with regard to frozen assets is also consistently highlighted.
P. MICHOS: I did not quite understand. Are we, in essence, discussing maritime zones with the Benghazi side, or are we informing them of the outcome of our discussions on maritime zones with Tripoli?
L. ZOCHIOU: I believe I was clear in what I said, Mr. Michos.
P. MICHOS: Meaning... I did not understand the answer.
L. ZOCHIOU: They were briefed during their contacts with both the Minister of Foreign Affairs and during the meeting held by the Deputy Minister.
M. NICOLAIDOU: I would like to ask about the Cyprus Issue and Mr. Gerapetritis' contacts with Ms. Holguín. Before meeting Mr. Gerapetritis, Ms. Holguín met with Mr. Fidan. Mr. Fidan once again expressed support for a two-state solution. On the other hand, the Turkish Cypriot leader, Mr. Erhürman, appears, according to some recent statements, to favor direct talks between Nicosia and the pseudo-state outside the five-party framework. Do you assess that there has been any change in Türkiye's strategy? Has Ms. Holguín informed Mr. Gerapetritis of any new developments? Thank you.
L. ZOCHIOU: As regards the unacceptable claim for a "two-state solution", it is clear that it does not contribute to efforts aimed at finding a viable and just settlement of the Cyprus Issue. Nor will it be accepted, for the very simple reason that it falls outside the framework of the relevant United Nations Security Council resolutions, as the UN Secretary-General himself has also stated.
As for Türkiye's position, you will appreciate that the Greek Ministry of Foreign Affairs cannot provide information on that matter. With regard to the informal meeting in a broader format, relevant announcements will be made by the United Nations.
F. DOULGKERI: In recent statements, President Christodoulides said that discussions on the Cyprus issue have moved on to substantive matters and are no longer confined to confidence-building measures. Since the Minister met with Ms. Holguín, have you received any such indication? Can you confirm this?
L. ZOCHIOU: I would rather not add anything further on this matter.
June 18, 2026