In his meeting with the President of the European Council, António Costa, Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis sent a clear message: third countries threatening EU member states with war cannot participate in the European defense initiative SAFE.
“It is up to them to build good relations with Europe, but this requires respect for its principles,” the Prime Minister stated.
Support for Poland and European Solidarity
Mr. Mitsotakis expressed his support for Poland, which is defending the EU’s eastern borders against violations of its airspace. “As members of a strong Europe, we must demonstrate on the ground that no violation of sovereignty and sovereign rights can be tolerated,” he emphasized.
At the same time, he highlighted the need for a joint European financial instrument to fund anti-air and anti-missile defense initiatives. “In a European defense architecture, countries that threaten EU member states cannot take part,” he reiterated.
Ukraine at the Forefront
The Prime Minister underlined that the Ukraine issue remains a top priority for Greece, expressing public support for efforts to end the war and launch peace talks in which Ukraine itself must participate.
Middle East and Gaza
Turning to the Middle East, Mr. Mitsotakis referred to the “unacceptable violation of Qatar’s territorial sovereignty” and stressed the need to avoid any escalation in the region. He also noted Greece’s practical support for ceasefire negotiations in Gaza and the continuation of humanitarian aid drops.
Migration – Protecting the EU’s External Borders
Mr. Mitsotakis addressed the recent surge in migrant arrivals over the past 48 hours, stressing the urgent need for a more coordinated protection of the EU’s external borders and greater support for frontline states.
Economy – Competitiveness – Energy
On economic matters, the Prime Minister emphasized that Greece approaches the new EU budget with a plan and a positive attitude. Key priorities include:
- supporting competitiveness,
- strengthening agricultural policy,
- and creating a common European energy market with comparable energy prices.
Costa’s Remarks
For his part, European Council President António Costa praised Greece’s economic trajectory as “impressive and highly significant”. He underlined that Greece is a crucial member of the Union and highlighted the country’s valuable experience in managing crises along the EU’s southern borders.