Kyriakos Mitsotakis, speaking at the Council of Foreign Relations, emphasised that while Turkey’s revisionist stance remains unchanged, there have been constructive developments concerning overflights and migration.

Addressing major national issues ahead of the NATO summit, Mitsotakis discussed the violations of the Prespa agreement by North Macedonia’s new leadership, stressing Greece’s firm stance on the agreement’s erga omnes provisions.

He expressed concern over the non-constructive approach of referring to Macedonia differently, highlighting its detrimental impact on the neighboring country’s European aspirations.

Mitsotakis also touched upon Greek-Turkish relations, noting the initial challenge of confronting Turkey’s aggressive revisionism upon taking office. Despite Turkey maintaining its fundamental positions, Mitsotakis pointed out incremental positive measures regarding overflights and migration.

The Prime Minister reiterated the unresolved Cyprus issue fifty years after the Turkish invasion, emphasizing the necessity for a resolution based on UN resolutions. Regarding Ukraine, Mitsotakis emphasized the paramount importance of continuing aid, categorically stating there can be no negotiations with a defeated Ukraine.

Further topics included Greece’s involvement in Operation Shields in the Red Sea against the Houthis, as well as the government’s five-year energy policy emphasizing renewable sources and hydrocarbon exploration southwest of the Peloponnese and Crete.

Domestically, Mitsotakis acknowledged New Democracy’s parliamentary majority and outlined ongoing reforms crucial for Greece’s future trajectory, despite potential unpopularity.