Honorable Minister,
Dear friend Constantinos,
Allow me to begin by referring to the unfortunate incident and extend my sincere condolences to the relatives of the young Cadet who lost his life a few days ago during training exercises in Greece.
It is with great pleasure and deep emotion that I’m here today in Cyprus, on my first visit since taking office as Minister of Foreign Affairs.
Earlier today I was received by the President of the Republic of Cyprus, Mr. Nikos Christodoulides, with whom, as with you, Minister, we had a thorough discussion on all issues concerning Greece and Cyprus. First and foremost, of course, on the latest developments in the effort to resolve the Cyprus issue, as well as on a number of issues of common interest.
I’d like to take this opportunity to publicly reiterate that finding a just, viable and mutually acceptable solution to the Cyprus issue remains a top national priority of Greece's foreign policy. A solution of a bicommunal, bizonal Federation within the framework set out by the UN Security Council Resolutions.
An important goal is for Cyprus and the Cypriot people, both Greek and Turkish Cypriots, to be free from the Turkish occupying troops and the anachronistic system of guarantees and the invasive rights of third parties in Cypriot affairs. The solution must be functional and provide the reunited Republic of Cyprus with the future it deserves. It must also ensure the unimpeded implementation of the European acquis throughout the entire territory of Cyprus.
In this regard, our full coordination with the Republic of Cyprus at all levels serves as a firm compass for Greece and is the cornerstone of our policy on the Cyprus issue. We will in no way accept any fait accompli on the ground.
Minister, your personal contribution to this excellent climate of cooperation is indisputable. The three visits you’ve already made to Greece in the last three months have been particularly constructive.
It is in the same spirit of friendship and mutual respect that I am here today to send the message that Greece consistently supports Cyprus in resuming efforts to resolve the Cyprus issue.
As you are aware, at the recent European Council, the Greek Prime Minister expressed full support for Cyprus' request for a more active EU role based on President Christodoulides' proposals. Greece will continue to provide the same unwavering support within the framework of the United Nations.
Based on full adherence to the principles of International Law, Greece and Cyprus are working together, both bilaterally and at the European level, for peace, prosperity and stability in our wider region.
Greece and Cyprus have strengthened bilateral energy cooperation in an exemplary manner, with an emphasis on green transition, as well as on other issues of bilateral and international interest, such as the effective management of migration and the Russian invasion of Ukraine.
In addition to the excellent bilateral political and economic relations, Greece and Cyprus have managed to become a driving force for the creation of trilateral and multilateral formats, a very important development for the foreign policy of our countries. Being aware of the challenges in the Eastern Mediterranean region and the wider Middle East, we are firmly committed to the consolidation of a regional security framework through dialogue, cooperation and adherence to International Law by all sides. These schemes do not exclude anyone, as long as the principles and values of the United Nations Charter as well as strict adherence to International Law are observed.
We strongly support trilateral cooperation between Greece, Cyprus and Israel, with the participation of the United States, in the 3+1 format. We assess this format as an essential tool for promoting peace and stability.
Similarly, we invest in a major trilateral cooperation scheme with Egypt and respectively with Lebanon, Jordan and Palestine.
Regarding Türkiye, Minister, we are ready to take advantage of the current positive climate that has been created and foster conditions for dialogue based on the Law of the Sea in order to settle our bilateral dispute over the delimitation of the continental shelf and the Exclusive Economic Zone.
It remains to be seen, however, whether also Türkiye sincerely wishes to chart a path of rapprochement, without this meaning that Greece will back down from its red lines and national priorities. A just solution of the Cyprus issue is a major priority.
Dear Minister, dear friend Constantinos,
I'd like to note that, in addition to our traditionally strong friendly, fraternal relations, our own long-standing friendly relationship is added, a parallel course in academia and now in politics, which will consolidate and deepen these historic ties.
Once again, I’d like to thank you for the sincere, friendly talks we had, as well as for your warm hospitality, and I look forward to seeing you soon in Athens.
July 4, 2023