It has been a busy couple of days in Brussels. First, we had the opportunity to meet with the new leadership of the European Commission, including the Commissioner for the Mediterranean, Dubravka Šuica. We discussed issues that concern our country, such as climate change, which is of particular importance for the Mediterranean, potential migratory flows, sustainable infrastructure, which should be in place in the Mediterranean, and also demography, which is a pressing European problem. It has been identified for the first time as one of the core issues for the European Union.
I also had the opportunity to meet with the Greek Commissioner for Sustainable Transport and Tourism, Mr. Tzitzikostas, and discuss issues related to his portfolio. I also had the pleasure of meeting with the Greek Members of the European Parliament. The presence of the Greek Members of the European Parliament has an added value for our country.
During the Meeting of the NATO Ministers of Foreign Affairs, we had the opportunity to discuss with King Abdullah of Jordan, who informed us on the situation in the Middle East. Although the situation remains fragile, there is a glimmer of optimism even after the ceasefire in Lebanon. There must be an immediate ceasefire. The humanitarian crisis, which is currently raging, must come to an end. The hostages must be immediately released. Greece has always upheld international law and, for this reason, we support the two-state solution with the establishment of a Palestinian state.
We had the opportunity to discuss with the Ukrainian Minister of Foreign Affairs. I also held a bilateral meeting with him, during which he described the situation on the ground, which is not good at all and creates conditions of even greater concern in view of the winter. Greece stands with Ukraine. We believe there should be an immediate solution that would fully account for Ukraine's territorial integrity and sovereignty. That must happen as soon as possible and obviously in line with international law.
I also had the opportunity to meet with my Turkish counterpart, to discuss matters related to the upcoming High-Level Cooperation Council, which will be held in early 2025, in Ankara.
Greece, as a member of NATO, a strong member of the European Union and, in less than a month, a member of the UN Security Council, possesses a significant diplomatic capital given the numerous developments that are currently unfolding. Our country has acquired an international footprint, which allows it to have a say in shaping the global security architecture. Greece is a reliable partner whose stance is based on principles and international law. We will continue on this path to increase our diplomatic footprint internationally.
Thank you very much.
December 4, 2024