Greece’s shipping and Island Policy Minister Panagiotis Kouroumblis praised Greek coast guard personnel during his visit to the island of Kastellorizo, noting their contribution to protecting Europe’s borders and culture.
Kouroumblis made the comments shortly after laying a wreath at the monument erected in the memory of the 'Lady of Ro' on the islet of Ro.
"Here, you defend not only Greek but European borders; therefore you defend not only Greece but the European Union and European culture," Kouroumblis said.
"The borders of the Balkans and the Aegean have been set by international treaties and we, the countries that have signed them, must all understand this and walk together in peace, aiming for the development of our countries, aiming for the development of all countries in the region’’ he added.
The minister was accompanied on his visit by the head of the Hellenic Coast Guard Vice Admiral Stamatis Raptis and senior coast guard officers.
During his visit, Kouroumblis consulted with municipal authorities on the problems that exist and the opportunities created by ministry policies.
Kouroumblis is scheduled to go to the small uninhabited island of Stroggyli on Monday in order to visit the military outpost stationed there and then the island of Symi, for talks with municipal authorities and the local coast guard.