JOURNALIST: Minister, welcome to Alexandroupoli.
G. GERAPETRITIS: It is good to see you. It is always a great pleasure to be in Alexandroupoli, and it is a particular honor to be here with you today. It is very important to highlight the geopolitical benefits of the upgrade of Greece, particularly Thrace, which is of significant sensitivity to us. It constitutes the borders of Greece, of our territory, and it is always a high priority for us to be able to reinforce and upgrade it.
JOURNALIST: Yesterday, the US Ambassador, Mr. Tsunis, described Alexandroupoli as a unique place in Greece of great geostrategic, commercial, energy, and military significance. I would like your comment on the city's importance amidst two wars: the ongoing war in Ukraine and the war in the Middle East, as well as the current reversal of energy and commercial routes from South to North.
G. GERAPETRITIS: Alexandroupoli is progressively emerging as a geostrategic hub of immense importance. Primarily, Alexandroupoli is currently a region with an exceptionally diversified energy environment. It is an energy hub of great significance. I could further elaborate on that, but it is evident. A second notable feature of Alexandroupoli is its evolution into a hub of combined transportation, underscored by major projects underway at the port, as well as with the ongoing enhancements to the road and railway network set to create a vertical corridor which will constitute a tremendous alternative route for the region and for Greece as a whole. Moreover, Alexandroupoli is poised to become a significant geostrategic pole for defence. The MDCA, our agreement with the United States, is essentially transforming Alexandroupoli, through extensive upgrades and modernization efforts, elevating both the area and Greece into a very strong military pole. In terms of energy, it is important to emphasize that right now, as you rightly put it, there is a global trend towards energy diversification.
Russia’s aggression against Ukraine has demonstrated that no country can function in a status of over-dependency, especially in terms of energy. For this reason, a major project has been expedited, aimed at diversifying our energy sources. I believe that today’s Alexandroupoli epitomizes this shift towards energy diversification. The Floating Storage Regasification Unit, the FSRU, which is in a phase of trial operation and is expected to be fully operational within March, is located in Alexandroupoli. Furthermore, there is the prospect of a second FSRU in Thrace, which we hope to activate.
Thus, on the one hand, we have the pipelines, enabling regasification, and simultaneously, there is the capacity for combined power generation, which currently uses natural gas and prospectively hydrogen. We have the oil pipelines, the two Burgas-Alexandroupoli pipelines and the NATO pipeline. So, what we realize today is that Alexandroupoli can ensure energy security not only for Greece, but also for the entire Southeastern Europe. I believe a typical example is that, while Greece was essentially indirectly dependent on Bulgaria for natural gas due to the combined pipelines, it was Greece that provided Bulgaria with the ability to survive following Russia’s imposed cut-off. Therefore, as you rightly put it, we are currently in a reversal trend. Our primary ambition is to transform Alexandroupoli into a strategic pivot, thus establishing ourselves as a primary supplier of all forms of energy.
JOURNALIST: As you mentioned Russia, it is clear that all of this is happening due to the war in Ukraine and the ongoing invasion. How concerned are you with these developments?
G. GERAPETRITIS: The reality is that we find ourselves in a particularly critical phase of two wars, which are in relative geographic proximity to Greece. However, apart from geographic proximity, there is geostrategic proximity, as well. Regarding Russia, we all realize that Ukraine is currently in a very difficult position, as Russian aggression continues unabated. We had the incident during the Prime Minister's visit to Odessa, which I believe is indicative of the existing intentions. We have the Middle East, where, as it appears, peace efforts have not been successful. There is a significant effort from the Arab world to present a proposal that could meet all the demands in the Middle East and also provide a perspective for the Palestinian people. While there is a great effort to deliver humanitarian aid, and the maritime corridor is important, it is not sufficient. We are on the verge of a humanitarian disaster, unlike any other in global history, I believe.
JOURNALIST: Will Greece participate in the maritime corridor?
G. GERAPETRITIS: Obviously, yes. Greece will be part of the maritime corridor. This initiative can relieve part of the humanitarian crisis. However, Ms. Fotaki, allow me to say that it is not enough.
At this moment, the humanitarian crisis has reached such proportions that a maritime corridor is essential but not sufficient. More humanitarian corridors must definitely open up so that we can have an unhindered flow of humanitarian aid, especially through the North and East. That is, there should be a combined entry of humanitarian aid to Gaza so that we can address not only the issues concerning the provision of basic life necessities but also issues related to diseases and lack of basic infrastructure. I believe we have reached ground zero. And of course, we all realize that as long as hostilities continue, there is always the risk of further escalation in the wider area. I know, you will ask me about the Red Sea.
JOURNALIST: There was an incident yesterday involving the frigate Hydra. Allow me to tell you that there are numerous parties reacting and many people fearful of Greece becoming entangled in a war. Politicians often assert that such actions serve the national interest, but the initiation of actual combat raises further concerns among the populace.
G. GERAPETRITIS: First of all, to be very precise about what happened - we had the first operation indeed, with actual firing, which was directed against unmanned small aircrafts. So, in reality, there were UAVs, you know, drones, which fly and create conditions of destruction. What I want to emphasize is this: Greece adopts a principled stance in international politics. We are in favor of International Law, in favor of the defender, against any form of revisionism. There is a bigger picture, a strategy that we must always and consistently serve. We must be active in our politics.
Particularly regarding the Red Sea, I would like to emphasize that, while I hear and respect those who want Greece to maintain constructive neutrality, I, as Foreign Minister, and the government as a whole, cannot turn a blind eye to an attack in the Red Sea, currently targeting not only international trade but also Greek ships. The decision that the Greek government made, allow me to say, was absolutely balanced and essential. We said we would be active in the Red Sea, in a supporting and defensive role - not an offensive one, of course - but we will ensure, as we should do, the freedom of navigation, maritime safety, the safety of Greek sailors, the safety of Greek ships. And I want to tell you this: those who claim that we should be neutral so as to avoid risks, should consider the massive consequences that may occur if we had a shipping industry under constant risk. Greece is the leading maritime power in terms of commercial fleet. When you are a leading power, you have both privileges and obligations.
JOURNALIST: So, the risks are also well understood. We do not claim that we are heading into a safe environment.
G. GERAPETRITIS: We are not naïve. There is always a risk assessment and a cost-benefit analysis. What we are saying is that there needs to be a proportional presence of Greece, and this presence is clear. Greece will never engage in offensive actions. We will not do anything that will endanger the Greek mission and Greek diplomacy. What we are doing, and we do it consistently and convincingly, is to be present in an exceptionally vulnerable region, protecting Greek shipping, Greek sailors, Greek foreign policy.
JOURNALIST: Regarding Ukraine, are there any thoughts of providing assistance beyond material and technical aid?
G. GERAPETRITIS: There will be no dispatch of military units, if you mean that. We will not send Greek combat units. We will continue to support Ukraine. I want to tell you that the situation in Ukraine is bleak. I am aware that this may sound like a cliché today, but Ukraine has reached ground zero. Russian aggression continues and intensifies. Over time, Ukraine finds itself in an increasingly difficult position. The international community has expressed its solidarity, but this is not always enough. For me and for Greece, standing by Ukraine by every means, supporting it politically, and supporting it with military supplies is an imperative need as well as a national duty. I reiterate, if today we do not stand up against revisionism being attempted in many parts of the world, we will lose any moral right to invoke revisionism in a future situation and whatever that may entail.
JOURNALIST: Let me turn back to the situation in Gaza, the war in Gaza and the Middle East. There are concerns about the expansion of the front, but also about collateral issues, such as Egypt, which are extremely worrying. We are witnessing increased migration flows to Crete. I would like your comment on that.
G. GERAPETRITIS: You are touching upon a very important issue. Of course, we all realize that what is happening today in the Middle East is primarily linked to the humanitarian crisis that is being generated. However, the collateral consequences are by no means negligible. It is obviously related to the extension of hostilities. You have already mentioned the security of international trade, which can mean a huge increase in global prices, apart from the safety of international shipping. There are broader geostrategic issues, as well. You rightly point out Egypt.
Egypt is a country that currently serves as a pillar in the wider region. It is surrounded by an extremely challenging neighborhood, one that exerts extreme pressure and creates conditions of high tension in the wider region. Egypt should and does stand productively with, allow me to say, moderation in the face of things, playing a substantive constructive role. On the other hand, Egypt suffers huge economic losses from the events. Just consider that there is a reduction in revenue of about 35% from transits through the Suez Canal, which you understand is Egypt's main wealth-generating resource. So, we all realize that it is on the verge of multiple crises.
It receives significant support from the International Monetary Fund. However, it will also receive very significant aid from the European Union. I would like to tell you that Greece has been at the forefront in upgrading the strategic relationship of the European Union with Egypt and the aid that will be provided.
A delegation of the highest level from the European Commission will visit Egypt over the weekend, in the presence of the Greek Prime Minister, precisely to reaffirm the support provided by the European Union and Greece to Egypt. As you are aware, Greece and Egypt have developed a very strong strategic relationship. For us, support for Egypt is not only essential but also constitutes a national obligation, and we will do everything in our power to maintain it. I want to remind you that beyond the geostrategic issues that link Greece with Egypt, there is also the issue of the development of a major energy project, namely the electric interconnection of Egypt and Greece. This is a project that has been approved by the European Commission as a Project of Mutual Interest, being one of the major projects that the European Union currently supports. It will ensure continuity and sufficiency of energy supply. Let me refer to migration, which you mentioned. Undoubtedly, there is significant pressure regarding migration from the South. Currently, we have increased flows from Libya. I want to remind you that Libya is a country that is extremely vulnerable due to the political conditions that have developed in recent years.
JOURNALIST: Another factor of instability.
G. GERAPETRITIS: Indeed, another factor of instability in the wider region. I want to point out that this increase in migration flows from Libya mainly concerns Egyptians, who cross the borders from eastern Libya and come to Greece, through the exploitation of human suffering. We have already taken a series of actions so that there is both control of the borders and returns of those who come to Greece. However, when we talk about migration crises, I want to emphasize how important it is to try to manage the underlying causes that produce the crisis. In this case, the main cause of the crisis is precisely the great instability observed in the region of Africa, particularly North Africa, but also sub-Saharan Africa and the Middle East. Therefore, active diplomacy is required, along with the establishment of a system that will safeguard peace, and, of course, the elimination of inequalities, which, unfortunately, at this point remains significantly unaddressed.
JOURNALIST: I will change the subject and take you to Greek-Turkish relations, since we had the Deputy Foreign Minister, Ms. Papadopoulou’s visit to Ankara on Monday, in the context of the political dialogue. Let me begin with the easy part. Did we discuss what has been bothering us lately? Are there issues that have upset us? Can they disrupt the positive atmosphere? What responses did you receive?
G. GERAPETRITIS: I have said it repeatedly. Discussions with Türkiye are not easy; we all realize that. I, according to my world view, always follow a basic principle: We ought to discuss. We ought to have a deliberative spirit. We cannot always be ready for armed conflict. And this does not only apply to Türkiye. It applies to any synergy that can be developed. I believe that through productive discussion, significant things can be achieved. Mainly, one thing can be achieved. Differences do not have to lead to crises. As regards Greek-Turkish relations, when I came to the Ministry I set a goal, under the instructions of the Prime Minister: to be able to engage in dialogue, to find a way, a mechanism, so that whenever tensions arise, they do not escalate into crises and to address even the difficult issues, when possible. The easy issues maintain a state of calm in the region. However, we will never find ourselves in a state of absolute tranquility as long as we do not touch upon and resolve the difficult issues that have been pending for decades.
JOURNALIST: When will we begin discussing the difficult issues? The Turkish-Libyan memorandum, for example.
G. GERAPETRITIS: We understand that the Turkish-Libyan memorandum is null and void; it cannot produce any legal effect. In any case, there was also a Libyan court ruling, which exactly accepted the lack of legal effect of this memorandum.
What I want to tell you is that the mandate we, the two Foreign Ministers, have received, from our leaders, the heads of our governments, is to proceed, when it is deemed that the conditions are appropriate, to discuss our major issues. And, of course, we all realize that the major issues are the delimitation of maritime zones, and in particular, the Exclusive Economic Zone and the continental shelf. It is a discussion that, in my opinion, needs to take place.
It is critical that we maintain a state of detente, with no airspace violations and decreased migratory flows due to mutual controls and effective border cooperation. This is essential but not sufficient. We should have the courage to address the major issues, and timing is important. I believe it’s time we discussed complex issues without acrimony.
JOURNALIST: So, will you and Mr. Fidan begin the discussion about the difficult issues? Because no matter how good the climate is, it will eventually deteriorate unless we find solutions.
G. GERAPETRITIS: The climate remains satisfactory. We have developed multiple channels. As you are aware, tensions are frequently not apparent precisely because we have developed decompression mechanisms that work promptly and efficiently. Many potential crises have been averted because of this. We will continue in that direction.
As regards the dialogue with the Turkish Foreign Minister, it will continue. The Turkish Foreign Minister has also received the mandate to discuss all issues. Of course, we will have a discussion and possibly a meeting prior to the meeting between the two leaders in Ankara in May. My belief today is that we are on a relatively good path. Nevertheless, this does not negate the fact that we understand the difficulty and complexity of dealing with issues within a few months, which on one hand have been chronic and on the other hand have produced major crises in the past. We want to be able, first and foremost, to live in a state of calm and, secondly, to discuss in a deliberative manner not only the relatively simple matters, such as the mutually beneficial positive agenda, but also the difficult ones.
JOURNALIST: When we were still in a crisis with Türkiye, some analysts referred to the possibility of a non-aggression pact if it is not possible to find a solution to the major issues. Would you see that as possible?
G. GERAPETRITIS: A significant step was taken, which was the Athens Declaration of December 7th on good neighborly relations and the development of friendship. For me, we need to take things step by step. I am not at all for sudden leaps. I would prefer gradual progress over speed. Especially regarding relations with Türkiye, we all understand that we cannot go from zero to 100 in four seconds, as a Ferrari would.
I think we need to proceed logically. Even more, I feel that we are in a phase where we are building mutual sincerity, which had been breached in the past. I feel that we have achieved a satisfactory level of mutual understanding, but we should proceed step by step, not by leaps.
JOURNALIST: Yet, there is the Cyprus issue, which remains in a stalemate and could be a source of tension.
G. GERAPETRITIS: The Cyprus issue is a major priority for Greek foreign policy, as I have repeatedly stated. I believe that the current situation presents a very good opportunity for the Cyprus issue to be placed high on the UN's agenda again and for a meaningful discussion to take place.
The appointment of the Special Envoy, the personal envoy of the Secretary-General of the United Nations, is a very positive development. I have had the opportunity to have an extensive discussion with the Special Envoy, as well as with the Secretary-General himself, Mr. Guterres.
Right now, what we should be pressing for is an immediate discussion. We all realize that our positions may differ, as is the case on many issues in Greek-Turkish relations. However, regarding Cyprus, the most important thing right now is for the parties to sit down at the same table and discuss Cyprus’ future. We are all aware that this discussion does not occur in a vacuum. It is a discussion that takes place within a structured framework, the United Nations Security Council resolutions.
We will do everything in our power to assist Cyprus in a creative, productive spirit, to activate the mechanisms of discussion, so that there can be a more substantive understanding of these issues and so that we can finally see a united Cyprus.
JOURNALIST: Let us turn to the Beleri case. What do you intend to do? Could this case lead to the deterioration of Albanian-Greek relations?
G. GERAPETRITIS: I will address the Beleri issue in the form of headlines. It is a European issue, not a bilateral one. This is a European issue because it is a crucial aspect of the rule of law.
JOURNALIST: I think some of your colleagues in the European Union disagree.
G. GERAPETRITIS: I believe we have the ability to convince even those who are skeptical, and we will do so if necessary. What I want to emphasize is the following: This is a case of an elected mayor. It is important that this is a case of an elected official of the local government.
The people have expressed their will and therefore, we should all have an understanding. Greece has adopted an extremely productive and beneficial stance. We never said that we would blackmail a court decision. What we said was the obvious. That there should first be a fair trial, and then the elected mayor should assume his duties. That is the minimum we could demand.
On the other hand, we should note that we have not seen similar moves from the Albanian side. An Albanian court has ruled that George Goro, the acting mayor, must be removed from office immediately. Unfortunately, this ruling has never been implemented, resulting in the following political and historical paradox; the defeated candidate for mayor in the elections of May 14 is currently mayor, and Fredi Beleri, who is the elected mayor, is in prison. Excuse me, but this raises questions regarding the rule of law.
JOURNALIST: So, the potential of a veto remains open.
G. GERAPETRITIS: Greece always keeps all options open. But the veto is not an end in itself. In the context of the decision-making process of the European Union, the purpose of the veto right is not to exert pressure in any direction, but to clarify the meaning of the European acquis. The European acquis has very precise requirements. It requires compliance with International Law, respect for minorities, respect for the rule of law and fundamental political rights. Therefore, we understand that every Member State has not only the right but also the obligation to raise these issues within the European Commission and the European Council.
JOURNALIST: Thank you very much.
G. GERAPETRITIS: It was an honour and a pleasure. Thank you very much.
March 14, 2024