MIDDLE EAST CRISIS
• It is an unresolved issue, which has been shaped by historical data that have become exceedingly severe.
• We need to evaluate whether the actions taken will cause a domino effect in the broader region. It is essential to observe whether the three groups - Hezbollah, the Houthis, and Hamas - will coordinate strikes either within or outside of Israel, and what Israel's response will be.
• Regarding the consequences for Greece, it is clear that this escalation will not only create major problems for regional and international peace, but will also significantly affect the humanitarian situation in the region.
• The Greek government, the Greek State, has maintained a principled stance on the Middle East.
• We anticipate an increase in migration flows, and there are also concerns related to the supply chain.
• From the outset, we have endorsed the situation as it has been shaped, in accordance with International Law. For this reason, even today, we have ensured - and not many countries have achieved this - that we can discuss with all involved actors in the region.
• Our goal is for Greece to emerge unscathed from this crisis and for all of us to move forward the very next day without facing such severe global consequences.
TÜRKIYE
• We will continue to work towards maintaining a state of calm and security. Without being naive in our approach and without relinquishing any of our sovereign rights, we should discuss even difficult issues with our neighbors.
• Our goal is to continue fostering good cooperation in the fields of migration and entrepreneurship. Initiatives like the on-arrival visa issuance on ten islands for Turkish visitors, which was approved by the European Commission as an exception to the Schengen Agreement precisely due to Greece’s strong diplomatic capital, should be expanded.
• Regarding the issue of Kasos, there has been significant disinformation. The reality is that the Italian research vessel completed its survey according to plan and even beyond.
• There was no risk of a “hot incident” with Türkiye. From the beginning, communication channels operated effectively at all levels, enabling tensions to de-escalate, Turkish vessels to withdraw, and the survey to be completed.
• There was no direct or indirect recognition of any Turkish claim. No permission was taken from Türkiye to conduct this survey. Permission was never sought. Moreover, such permission is not required by International Law.
THE CYPRUS ISSUE
• Inaction and stagnation on the Cyprus issue have, unfortunately, led Türkiye to adopt more extreme positions, namely pursuing a solution based on two states and sovereign equality. Such a solution is not acceptable to Greece.
• We are working for a Bizonal, Bicommunal Federation within the framework of the UN Security Council resolutions.
• Over the past year, we have managed to initiate a significant effort by the United Nations and personally by the Secretary-General, inter alia, through the appointment of his Personal Envoy, Ms. Holguin, thereby positioning the Cyprus issue as a major priority among global crises at this moment.
• Good Greek-Turkish relations influence the Cyprus issue positively.
• Cautious optimism. The coming period will be extremely critical and significant for the Cyprus issue.
THE BALKANS
• Greece has always been a staunch supporter of the integration of the Western Balkans countries into the European Union.
• This applies to both North Macedonia and Albania, but there can be no concessions on fundamental principles such as the rule of law, democracy, and adherence to international treaties.
August 1, 2024