In an interview on Real FM, with journalist Nikos Chatzinikolaou, Alternate Minister of Foreign Affairs Miltiadis Varvitsiotis referred to the international alliances Greece is shaping, making it stronger diplomatically and a trusted interlocutor on the European and international levels.
“Our strategic partnership with Israel gives us an ally and interlocutor in the Mediterranean basin,” Mr. Varvitsiotis emphasised, noting that Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis is the first foreign leader to visit Israel following the formation of the coalition government, showing how much importance the Israelis attached to our relationship. He added that Greek-Israeli relations are multi-level and based on the prospects for the two peoples to respond to shared challenges.
Regarding a potential agreement with Egypt, he highlighted that the situation is more complex than it was with Italy. He pointed out that Greek-Egyptian relations are based on honesty, respect for international law, and a common understanding of the geography of the region. “We talk to everyone, on terms of honesty and a shared outlook, so that we can expand the framework of our diplomatic alliances, because we believe that we can resolve problems through diplomacy. It is a prudent strategy that requires composure, restraint and commitment to goals,” he stressed.
Asked about the likelihood of a ‘heated incident’, he responded that an act of aggression against Greece would lead to the international isolation of Turkey, emphasising that our country is prepared for all scenarios and is working on the diplomatic level to avert any negative scenario. He also added that, while our neighbouring country is behaving like a rogue state, Greece is sending a message of stability and expanding its international alliances.
June 17, 2020