Greece will never enter a logic of bidding in Libya, Foreign Minister Giorgos Gerapetritis clarified in an interview with Direct and journalist Giorgos Evgenidis, stressing that the country remains a reliable partner, firmly defends international law, and invests in multidimensional diplomacy from Africa to the Aegean.

Referring to developments in Libya, the Foreign Minister stated that Greece has never abandoned this crucial region:
“Turkey is very active in Libya and more broadly in Africa, pursuing a clearly expansionist policy. However, we have never abandoned Libya. On the contrary, we have successfully restored our relationship, activating all channels with both sides. Very soon, I will visit both Eastern and Western Libya.”

Emphasizing the principle of being a reliable partner, Mr. Gerapetritis underlined that Athens will not engage in purchasing influence in Libya:
“Greece will never enter into a logic of bidding and buying influence. We stand by our principles and have many ‘arrows in our quiver.’ The notorious Turkey-Libya memorandum is baseless, invalid, and contrary to international law. Whoever signs it, it produces no legal effect.”

Regarding illegal immigration, the Minister referred to the broader geopolitical dimensions that go beyond Libya:
“All of sub-Saharan Africa is plagued by conflicts, and instability feeds the southern corridor. Greece has made tough decisions, especially on border surveillance. The sea is open—we do not want to risk human lives—but so far, our policy is bearing fruit.”
Mr. Gerapetritis also stated that he will raise the issue of maritime zones with the Libyan authorities:
“I will ask both sides to begin substantive discussions on the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ).”

He also announced that “very soon we will have announcements regarding marine parks in the Ionian and Southern Aegean. It is a major environmental initiative that will also have a geopolitical footprint—we know these actions will provoke reactions from neighboring countries, but Greece will not remain idle.”

Responding to criticism, the Foreign Minister emphasized:
“Criticism is welcome, but so is self-criticism. The truth is, we are activating what has remained dormant for decades. I acknowledge there are reactions, but I challenge every good-faith critic to look at the map of our plans.”

He also highlighted the importance of international investment interest, mentioning Chevron’s intent to explore hydrocarbon opportunities in Greece. He noted that this constitutes not only an economic investment but also an investment in political stability and respect for international law.

On Greek-Turkish relations, he noted:
“Greece operates in a dynamic environment. We don’t practice transactional politics, and thankfully we don’t selectively apply international law. We consistently uphold our principles—that’s what makes us reliable allies.”
He added: “We maintain open communication channels, and we have pathways to the U.S. and elsewhere. Our relations with Turkey are functional, even if we haven’t resolved all the major issues. We don’t want Greece to live perpetually with its finger on the trigger—we’ve reduced migration flows and curtailed airspace violations.”

Responding to the personal attacks, Giorgos Gerapetritis said:
“I know that sometimes I’m completely unpopular. I could be more popular with shouting, threats, and slogans against Turkey—but I prefer to serve my country with consistency and seriousness. Anyone who accuses me of being submissive should show exactly where we’ve lost something.”
Regarding the personal attacks he receives, he said:
“The expressions used against me have surpassed all limits of vulgarity. The names I’ve been called are like a punch to the gut. If I believed that this vulgar criticism came from people who genuinely care for the country, I would have resigned. But I know there are self-serving motives,” he noted, emphasizing that a responsible patriot must tell citizens the truth—not flatter them.

In closing, he sent the following message:
“I am not a career politician, but first and foremost a citizen. I chose to stand before my fellow citizens with a sense of responsibility. My goal is not to remain in office for a long time but to serve my country.”