Deputy FM Amanatidis meets with the President of the International Committee of the Red Cross, Peter Maurer (Athens, 17 February 2016)

Deputy Foreign Minister Ioannis Amanatidis met at the Foreign Ministry today, Wednesday, 17 February 2016, with the President of the International Committee of the Red Cross, Peter Maurer.

During their constructive conversation, they looked at ways in which the International Committee of the Red Cross can more effectively assist the Greek government in its efforts to deal with the refugee crisis.

Mr. Maurer expressed his admiration for the compassion shown by the islanders of the northern Aegean and for the Greek state’s actions, recognizing the significant progress that has been made in managing refugee flows.

Mr. Amanatidis underscored that “if the deeper causes are not addressed – that is, if peace is not brought to Syria – the refugee crisis cannot be definitively resolved.” Finally, he thanked Mr. Maurer for the positive and supportive views he expressed with regard to the enormous efforts Greece is making to deal with the refugee crisis with humanity and effectiveness.

February 17, 2016