The Prime Minister, Kyriakos Mitsotakis, among others, spoke about the results of the NATO Summit, the war in Ukraine and the Greek-Turkish relations, in the press conference after the end of the work.

“The challenges that the Alliance will be called upon to face are of great diplomatic importance for the future of NATO. It is important that we be able to defend ourselves against Russia’s ambitions”, he said.

He added: “Any obstacles to the enlargement of the Alliance with Finland and Sweden were overcome quickly and painlessly so that we could invite the two countries. Illegal immigration, the issue of Libya, the rise of Islamic terrorism were discussed during the summit. Greece wants to be a protagonist in this debate. Greece has a special role to play, it has the largest fleet in shipping”, he said.

Speaking about the situation in Ukraine, the Greek Prime Minister also noted that “it is clear to everyone that everyone’s commitment to NATO is in Ukraine. There is no tolerance for other possible problems, nor can the Alliance be a field for resolving bilateral disputes”.

Referring to Greek-Turkish relations, the Prime Minister noted that Turkey did not raise any issue against Greece in any of the discussions that took place.

See Also:

Bernie Ecclestone says he would “take a bullet” for “first class” Vladimir Putin as he defends war in Ukraine

Regarding the US message through the White House statement, the Prime Minister stressed: “The White House has made it clear that tensions in the Aegean and Syria must be avoided, giving a direct urge to Turkey to avoid the extreme rhetoric. In none of the many discussions we had these days did Turkey raise any issue that concerns the presentation of its own arguments against Greece. That says something. I will continue to insist that the door in Greece for a dialogue is open”.

Kyriakos Mitsotakis added: “It is not in Greece’s interest for Turkey to be completely isolated. We do not want a Turkey that does not talk”.

Regarding the F-16s, the Prime Minister noted that “our country’s job is to strengthen its own deterrent capability. Compared to three years ago there is a big difference. This is the concern of the government”.

Finally, regarding the fate of the F-35, he clarified that “yesterday a long process began. We will not be able to get the aircraft before 2027 and 2028 “.