I welcome to Athens today the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Hungary, Péter Szijjártó.
We are connected to Hungary by long-standing relations of friendship and strong ties between our peoples.
There could be no better example than the Greek diaspora in Hungary, which has served as a bridge of friendship between our peoples for all these years.
I would like to welcome to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Representative of the Greek Minority in the Hungarian Parliament, Mr. Laokratis Koranis. We thank you for your presence today at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
On the occasion of your presence here, Peter, I would like to thank Hungary for its long-standing support to the Greek minority.
Greece and Hungary are member states of the European Union and NATO.
Greece attaches particular importance to the European family and the North Atlantic Alliance.
It is known that we sometimes disagree with Hungary. On several occasions, I have expressed different opinions from the dear Minister, always, however, with mutual personal respect. Greece is always willing to overcome any differences, to discuss and to seek points of convergence.
Today, we discussed issues of international interest, EU Enlargement, the Balkans and their European perspective.
We must work together to make the Western Balkans a forum for dialogue rather than a source of tensions and nationalism.
Amidst this uncertainty and turmoil, we cannot afford to create another minefield in our region. As the oldest EU member state in the region, Greece will continue to actively support the EU enlargement process and the accession process of the Western Balkans.
Dear Peter,
Your visit to Athens today provides an opportunity to explore ways to strengthen our bilateral cooperation in the areas of economy, investment and tourism, which is rapidly growing between our countries.
New geopolitical challenges require the bolstering of our countries. One of the areas we should also strengthen is that of energy. And I address you under your capacity as Minister of Energy of Hungary.
Greece has set itself the strategic goal of becoming a major energy hub, contributing decisively to national and European energy diversification and security.
We also discussed migration issues. We believe that we can do more to protect our European external borders.
We have discussed in detail the current worrying and serious escalation in the wider area of the Middle East.
We agreed on the need for an immediate de-escalation of tensions for the benefit of regional security and stability.
We coordinate our actions at the European level, but also within the UN Security Council. Greece, as an elected member of the UNSC, cooperates with the other members of the European family and Hungary.
Ensuring the safety of Greek citizens and staff of Diplomatic Missions currently in conflict zones in Israel and Iran remains our top priority.
Already last night, early in the morning, the Greek operation to evacuate 141 people from Israel and Jerusalem, including two Hungarian citizens, was successfully completed.
When we join forces, we are stronger.
With these thoughts, I would like to welcome you again to Greece, Minister, dear Péter.
June 18, 2025