The need for an immediate cessation of hostilities in the Middle East and for the full restoration of freedom and security of navigation was underscored by Foreign Minister George Gerapetritis in a statement to ERT from New York, where the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly is taking place.

Mr. Gerapetritis referred to his contacts with his counterparts from Iran, Pakistan and Bahrain, stressing that the continuation of instability in the region creates risks not only to global security, but also to food security and the international energy supply chain.

At the same time, he stressed that Greece, ahead of assuming the Presidency of the UN Security Council in October, will work to strengthen international multilateralism and uphold international law.

📍New York | 22 September

FM George Gerapetritis met with #Iran FM @araghchi on the sidelines of #UNGA81

In focus:recent #MiddleEast developments. 🇬🇷FM stressed the importance of dialogue &diplomacy, full respect for International Law, maritime security & freedom of navigation pic.twitter.com/htd1jIsuSJ

— Υπουργείο Εξωτερικών (@GreeceMFA) September 22, 2026

Gerapetritis Meets Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi

As part of his meetings in New York, George Gerapetritis met with Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi.

During the meeting, they discussed the latest developments in the wider Middle East, as well as prospects for de-escalation and stability in the region.

The Greek Foreign Minister underscored the crucial importance of dialogue and diplomacy in promoting peace and regional security, while stressing the need for full respect for international law, with particular emphasis on maritime security and freedom of navigation.

As noted, Greece maintains an open channel of communication with Iran and consistently supports the resolution of disputes through diplomatic means.

Mr. Gerapetritis also expressed Greece’s readiness to offer its good offices to promote regional peace and security, as well as respect for the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).

Contacts with Iran and Middle Eastern Countries

“Within the framework of the United Nations General Assembly, the situation in the wider Middle East and Iran was at the center of attention,” the Foreign Minister said.

Mr. Gerapetritis noted that he participated in a meeting between the foreign ministers of the European Union and countries of the wider Middle East, while also holding bilateral meetings with the foreign ministers of Iran, Pakistan and Bahrain.

As he stressed, the main conclusion from the talks was the need for an immediate de-escalation of tensions and the restoration of the smooth operation of maritime corridors.

“ What emerges is the need for an immediate cessation of hostilities, for the full restoration of freedom and security of navigation,” he said.

Warning of Risks to Energy and Food Security

The Foreign Minister stressed that unhindered navigation is a critical factor for international stability, as any disruption to maritime corridors can affect the global economy.

“It truly poses a serious risk to global security and not only that, but also to food security and the security of the entire energy supply chain around the world, if there is not a full restoration of maritime corridors,” he said.

At the same time, Mr. Gerapetritis said that he had held discussions with the foreign ministers of other countries on regional security issues, including his counterparts from Algeria, Colombia and the Dominican Republic, as well as with other officials.

Greece in Favor of Strengthening Multilateralism

The Foreign Minister also referred to his meeting with the President of the UN General Assembly, which focused on the functioning, structure and decision-making procedures of the international organization.

“International multilateralism is a major priority. International law cannot retreat in the face of power,” he said.

As he stressed, Greece, as a member of the United Nations Security Council and with the Presidency of the body next month, will seek to strengthen international cooperation.

“Greece is increasing its diplomatic footprint, it is present all over the world, and it is strengthening its diplomatic partnerships,” Mr. Gerapetritis said.