Dendias: Russia is an integral part of Europe's security architecture

The historical ties between Greece and Russia were praised by Foreign Minister Nikos Dendias during the joint press conference with his Russian counterpart, Sergei Lavrov.

The ties between the two countries are "historic and multifaceted," the Greek Foreign Minister noted and expressed his "gratitude for Russia's special contribution to the liberation of Greece" on the occasion of the 200th anniversary of the Greek Revolution.

Regarding the content of his conversation with his Russian counterpart, Dendias pointed out that he referred to the "prospects of deepening the relationship based on the contacts Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis had with his Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Misustin."

Regarding the economic sector, the Foreign Minister spoke of "great prospects" and informed that Russian investments in Greece was discussed.

Another issue discussed was tourism, with Dendias indicating the readiness of Greece to accept vaccinated Russian travelers or those who test negative for COVID-19 72 hours before arrival.

The Foreign Minister also expressed his belief that "all bilateral issues will be discussed during the visit of Kyriakos Mitsotakis to Russia, which he hopes, as he said, will take place within the year.

Dendias also thanked Russia for supporting all resolutions on the Cyprus issue, while informing, as he noted, his counterpart about his concerns regarding Turkey, which "promotes itself" as a leader of the Muslims.

He reiterated Greece's desire for dialogue with Ankara on the basis of international law and expressed satisfaction with Russia's support for the expansion of the Greek Exclusive Economic Zone to 12 miles.

Turkey threatens war with Greece if it enacts its legal right to 12 nautical miles of maritime space from its islands.

At the same time, Dendias underlined Russia's contribution to the stability of the Middle East, while continuing to refer to Moscow's relations with Brussels.

As he said, the EU-Russia partnership agreement was signed 27 years ago and he was present at the ceremony.

"The desire of the Mitsotakis government is for the (EU-Russia) relationship to return to the level it was and not to deteriorate," he said.

"Russia is an integral part of Europe's security architecture and plays an important role in addressing regional challenges," Dendias added.

READ MORE: Greek FM meets with Lavrov in Sochi.