G. GERAPETRITIS: We, the nine Foreign Ministers of European Union member states, met today in Madrid to discuss the common challenges of Europe and, in particular, of the Mediterranean. We addressed the climate crisis, civil protection, migration, and the food crisis. All these challenges, which bind us, can only be solved through discussion and coordination.
We had the opportunity to coordinate our actions and reach a common understanding of the issues of the Middle East. We welcomed the decision taken on a humanitarian pause, a decision for which the Greek government had advocated from the beginning in discussions with all parties involved.
JOURNALIST: Could you tell us what initiatives will Greece take as a key player in the broader region?
G. GERAPETRITIS: We welcomed the decision for a humanitarian pause in the Middle East. It was a necessary decision, which Greece had long promoted with the parties we are in constant contact with. Greece will continue to play an active role because it is a consistent and trustworthy interlocutor of all parties. We believe that the humanitarian pause should be the first step towards a peaceful resolution of the Middle East issue. We will continue to engage in dialogue with all parties involved. Unfortunately, there are still civilians held hostage. They must all be released and the region must finally experience peace and prosperity. Greece will maintain an absolutely active role in this regard.
November 22, 2023