G. GERAPETRITIS: The Greek delegation concluded its visit to the United States with my address to the United Nations Security Council. Its subject was of immediate interest, concerning the environmental crisis and the ongoing food crisis. These are two interrelated crises that pose a structural threat to the entire planet.
Greece, participating in discussions on all major issues of international interest, made its intervention. I want to remind you that in mid-April, during the “Our Ocean Conference” in Athens, we will have the opportunity to welcome significant figures from the field of environmental protection along with prominent political leaders. Our aim is precisely to declare that immediate action must now be taken to halt the environmental degradation, especially that of the marine environment, the rise in water levels and the increase in temperature, all of which lead to a significant crisis for all environmental ecosystems.
Additionally, during my stay in the United States, I had the opportunity to meet with representatives from various countries to promote Greece's candidacy as a non-permanent member of the UN Security Council for the term 2025-2026. The Greek candidacy has been met with tremendous and favourable reception. We anticipate receiving significant support from all United Nations member countries. Greece enjoys considerable esteem due to its principled foreign policy.
During my visit, I had the opportunity to meet with the US Secretary of State, Mr. Antony Blinken, to reaffirm the exceptionally high level of bilateral relations, as well as to discuss the major threats to regional and international security.
I also had the opportunity to meet and have a special discussion with the UN Secretary-General, during which we not only addressed significant global issues but also the Cyprus issue. Both the UN Secretary-General and the US Secretary of State heard Greece's position that the current situation presents a significant opportunity to relaunch discussions between the Republic of Cyprus and the Turkish Cypriot community.
It is a critical opportunity that must not be missed, and I have asked both the Secretary-General and the Secretary of State to extend their valuable services to facilitate a breakthrough on this long-standing issue –persisting for fifty years – within the framework of the UN Security Council's resolutions.
Furthermore, I engaged in think tank discussions regarding Greece's candidacy for the Security Council, our country’s positions in the international arena, and our foreign policy. Greece maintains a continuous presence and possesses a strong international diplomatic capital. We will be present in all international discussions with the goals of bolstering global stability, promoting our national positions, and fostering world peace.
JOURNALIST: Minister, the European naval operation in the Red Sea will receive the formal green light on Monday. What message does Greece’s assumption of command of this force convey?
G. GERAPETRITIS: Greece is a seafaring nation. It has a duty to defend, not only its status as a dominant force in maritime trade but also its crews who frequently work under adverse conditions. Furthermore, this symbolism is reflected in our country's choice to participate in both the peacekeeping force established by a group of countries under the leadership of the United States, as well as the European force. For us, protecting maritime traffic is critical for people’s lives, maritime commerce, and the prevention of a food crisis on the planet.
Moreover, our stance regarding the Middle East issue is very clear. In line with the principles that govern us, hostilities must come to an immediate halt. A productive solution must be found within the framework of the Security Council's resolutions. The persistent humanitarian disaster must end and all hostages must be promptly released.
In this regard, I will have the pleasure to welcome the Palestinian Foreign Minister to Athens on Thursday, to discuss the progress that needs to be achieved. The situation in the Middle East is on the verge of a humanitarian disaster, and it is our collective duty to contribute positively, in order to ensure its prompt cessation.
February 13, 2024