Minister of Foreign Affairs George Gerapetritis’ statement to ERT TV Channel and journalist Pierros Tzanetakos following his participation in the International Conference on Gaza (Jordan, 11.06.2024)

Greece was represented today at the International Conference in Amman, Jordan, convened by the King of Jordan, the President of Egypt, and the Secretary-General of the United Nations. The conference focused on humanitarian aid to Palestine and Gaza, as well as the reconstruction plan following the cessation of hostilities.

We are currently facing a truly dramatic situation in the region. It is absolutely necessary to halt hostilities immediately, to ensure an unhindered uninterrupted flow of humanitarian aid to Gaza, and to develop a plan for Gaza's reconstruction, for main routes that will allow people to return to their homes, with basic infrastructure and life in Palestine restored. Of course, a vision must be provided to the Palestinian people on the establishment of a Palestinian state within the framework of the Security Council resolutions.

In this context, the Greek government fully endorses President Biden's plan for an immediate ceasefire, the release of hostages currently held, as well as a comprehensive plan that will allow the return of displaced Palestinians to their homes.

I would like to emphasize once again that Greece, holding significant international capital, was invited to this international conference and presented its views. Greece can and does talk to all the parties involved and it is important that we can contribute to the international effort to cease hostilities in the Middle East. It is a universal demand of Europe and the entire world to end this nightmare.

Greece will undertake a series of initiatives to achieve beneficial outcomes in the Middle East. Already, on my proposal to the Foreign Affairs Council of the European Union, a joint task force comprising Ministers from both the European Union and the Arab world will be set up to assist in promoting the peace process. Together with my counterparts from Portugal and Denmark, we have proposed to the European Union the formation of a group that will assist in reforming the institutions of the new Palestinian state, once established, to strengthen institutions, promote peace in the region, and facilitate peaceful coexistence between Israel and Palestine.