Minister of Foreign Affairs George Gerapetritis’ statement following his meeting with the UN High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), Filippo Grandi, and their visit to the exhibition featuring archival material from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the UNHCR titled: "The Beginnings of the Cooperation between Greece and the UN High Commission for Refugees: A Joint Exhibition of Archival Material from the Early Years of their Common Journey (1947-1963)" (Athens, 19.02.2024)
G. GERAPETRITIS: In highly challenging times, we fully support and encourage the activities of the UN High Commissioner for Refugees. We think that we need to further strengthen the international organisation, the United Nations, in order to provide humanitarian assistance to safeguard the rights of people who live in turmoil.
Unfortunately, the broader region, our region, is suffering from horrible wars. And any sort of displacement of populations should be prevented. Not only because it causes turbulence to nations, but also because this is what is required from humanitarian law.
The United Nations works hand in hand with the states in order to further promote peace, stability and prosperity of all nations.
Thank you so much for being here today. It is an important day for Greece and the UN High Commission for refugees to sign the Seat Agreement. We are looking forward to further cooperation for the benefit of all people. Thank you so much.
February 19, 2024