Just hours before his arrival in Athens, French President Emmanuel Macron sends a clear message about the next chapter of Greek-French relations, emphasizing that his visit marks the renewal of a historic strategic alliance. In his statement to “NEA,” the French president highlights both countries’ intention to advance to a new stage of cooperation, with emphasis on defense, economy and strengthening European sovereignty, underlining that the common goal is a strong and unified European voice on the international stage.
Macron’s full statement to “NEA”
“We have an exemplary defense cooperation. My visit to Athens seals the renewal of a historic strategic alliance.
For five years now, we have done much more than sign an agreement: we have shaped a common security culture. The success of our defense programs, particularly with the FDI frigates, proves that France and Greece are strengthening their joint action for the security of their peoples and Europe.
Today we want to move to a new stage, forging an enhanced comprehensive strategic partnership, in order to expand and deepen our economic exchanges, as we managed to do in the defense sector.
By bringing our businesses and key sectors closer together, by investing together, we are not only creating growth: we are building European sovereignty.
Between France and Greece, our dialogue is not only the fruit of a long shared history, it is strategic. We defend the same vision for Europe: strong, independent, competitive and faithful to its values. Together, we want Europe to have a strong and unified voice on the international stage.”
