High-symbolic messages regarding relations with Turkey, based on respect for International Law, as well as for European defense were sent after the Summit in Copenhagen, by Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis. He issued a new warning to Ankara regarding the casus belli, emphasizing that as long as there is a threat of war, Turkey will not be included in the SAFE program and even conveyed this position to NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, who asked him about it on the sidelines of the Summit.
“The NATO Secretary General asked me and I was clear. As long as Turkey continues to have the casus belli issue on the table, as long as it disputes the sovereignty of islands through gray zones, Greece will not consent to Turkey’s inclusion in the SAFE program. I didn’t discuss it much with the Chancellor, but we focused on issues such as Germany playing a role in joint defense initiatives” the Prime Minister emphasized characteristically.
Regarding drones and border security, he said the following: “If there is a European program, it is certain that Greece will also be covered. Greek citizens should not think that Greece does not take care to protect itself against such dangers on its own. We have already done so“.
Kyriakos Mitsotakis on European defense and SAFE
“At the next European Council we will have the opportunity to discuss the specific proposals that the European Commission will submit. It has already given us a first indication from the text that was circulated before the emergency summit here. There is an understanding that Europe’s security cannot be limited only to the major pending issue we have on our eastern borders due to Russia’s attack on Ukraine. The concept of 360-degree European security that will cover all borders is a concept that is reflected in the Council’s decisions and was also supported by other Southern countries such as Italy, Spain and Cyprus. I believe, of course, that whatever joint defense plan is launched will obviously include all of Europe’s external borders, including our homeland. I think we are closer than we were a year ago to the idea of a common financing tool for joint defense projects of European common interest. We haven’t reached there yet, but countries that were frugal like“.
Regarding Turkey’s inclusion in the Safe financing program, he emphasized the following: “The issue was briefly discussed. Greece’s position is clear, it will never consent without unanimity at distinct stages of the accession process. Unanimity will be required for critical chapters. Under no circumstances can Greece accept, and we will not accept, the possibility of blocking the process at any time if it judges that this could be detrimental to either European or national interests”.
“We are effective in border security and emphasize returns”
Regarding inflation de-escalation, the Prime Minister noted the following: “It is certainly encouraging news that for the first time inflation is lower than the European average. We cannot draw conclusions from one month’s data, but I estimate that we have seen the worst of inflation. This is a positive development. The cost of living issue is the top priority for our government. That’s why I presented the wage support program for millions of our fellow citizens in Thessaloniki. Obviously, any price de-escalation is part of the answer we need to give. I was pleased to see electricity prices remain stable at low levels. Our interventions are beginning to pay off for the benefit of Greek consumers. I also expect initiatives from the Development Ministry not only for the unified consumer authority but also initiatives for reduced prices that have already been announced. These measures compose a framework of interventions. They show Greeks that the accumulated high prices of recent years have largely weakened
Regarding migration, he commented that “Europe has changed its migration policy in recent years largely as a result of our country’s systematic work. We are effective in border security and emphasize returns, and our partners support our initiatives. The logic is: If you come illegally to our country and are not entitled to asylum, you will be deprived of your freedom and will return to the country you came from. If you are entitled to asylum, Greece will grant it with humanity and sensitivity. At the same time, Greece will work at all levels to eradicate the despicable smuggling networks, whether in the eastern Aegean or in the southern Mediterranean between Crete and Libya. I am satisfied because with the suspension of asylum we seem to be seeing results. We have a reduction in flows. European persistence at the root is needed. Our partners understand that Greece is not only on the front line but has also paved the way.
