Statement of the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Nikos Dendias, to Greek journalists following the meeting of the Ministers of Foreign Affairs of Greece, Egypt, Cyprus, France and Italy (Cairo, 8 January

JOURNALIST: Minister, following the quadrilateral meeting, with the participation of Italy as an observer, do you think a bulwark is being raised against Turkey’s effort to change the status quo in the region?

N. DENDIAS: What is happening is the creation of an understanding among states that are fully prepared to hold a discussion, based on International Law, of stability and peace in the region. We aren’t excluding anyone and we aren’t creating a front against anyone. But it is obvious that the countries that understand that International Law must be a code of conduct are discussing things amongst themselves and taking initiatives. That is what is happening here today. And allow me to say that what is of particular importance – and I am grateful for this – is France’s presence here. Mr. Le Drian’s presence here today and his clear stance – both during the meeting and later on, during the statements – is a source of great optimism and pleasure for us.