In its report, Handelsblatt focuses on Greece’s ambitious €25 billion armament program for the next decade, noting that while Athens is preparing for a massive military modernization, the German defense industry appears to be missing out — while France is emerging as the big winner.
With the French economy and 2026 budget at stake, President Emmanuel Macron seeks consensus among party leaders, while far-right and far-left factions refuse compromise, leaving the country in mounting political uncertainty.
Dendias called the meeting "fruitful and candid, in the framework of our long-standing, traditional bonds, common values, shared trust and mutual respect," saying it had reaffirmed "that Greece and France are close allies and friends and share the same perception regarding the developments in Europe and the wider region".
"France is one of Greece's closest partners. In the sectors of defence and security we have established a very important strategic partnership, which is constantly deepening," Mitsotakis said, praising the levels of cooperation between the two countries.
Notably, Dendias told reporters he will propose the acquisition of a fourth Belharra frigate to the Government Council for Foreign Affairs and Defense (KYSEA), with Lecornu expressing a “shared desire to move forward” with the proposal.
PM has no information about French plan to sell arms to Turkey, Dendias raises issue with French envoy
