JOURNALIST: Minister, what are the main points of your remarks today at the Security Council?
G. GERAPETRITIS: First of all, I would like to express my sincere condolences for the loss of seven young people yesterday. It was an unspeakable tragedy. From the very first moment, Greece, the Greek state, stood by both the families of the deceased and the injured. With a special flight of the Hellenic Air Force, the bodies will be returned to Thessaloniki tomorrow and with a special flight of the National Emergency Medical Service (EKAV), an injured person will also return to their city for further medical care.
Today, at the Security Council, I had the opportunity to speak on behalf of Greece on issues concerning the Middle East. Greece, with absolute respect for International Law and international multilateralism, supports any initiative that concerns peace in the long-suffering region of the Middle East. We stated that the priority today should be to ensure the uninterrupted flow of humanitarian aid and to take every initiative that will lead to sustainable peace in the region. Greece will be present in the future with its traditional, strong relations with the entire Arab world and its strategic relationship with Israel.
Furthermore, I had the opportunity to address the issue of Syria. Greece has a particular interest in the Syrian issue. The ceasefire agreements that have been concluded must be strictly adhered to. Any incidents of violence must be subject to highly thorough investigation and there must be full accountability. The Syrian government must ensure full respect for the human rights of all Syrian citizens, especially those of ethnic and religious minorities.
JOURNALIST: How would you comment on the statements made in Parliament about grey zones?
G. GERAPETRITIS: Türkiye’s notion of grey zones is entirely unfounded. It is absolutely null and void. Our long-standing national position is that International Law is clear on this issue. We do not discuss any issue of national sovereignty. No government, no minister will ever deviate from this fundamental position. Greece is expanding its international footprint, is being shielded against any potential threat. And for this reason, I believe it is important for all of us to work together in this direction, without introversion and with our focus on strengthening our country.
Thank you.
January 28, 2026