Greek defence minister reiterates Ukraine position; meets Turkish counterpart at NATO emergency meeting

Greek National Defence Minister Nikos Panagiotopoulos reiterated Greece's unwavering support for Ukraine's sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity within its internationally recognized borders, at an emergency meeting of NATO defence ministers held in Brussels on Wednesday.

Greece sent out humanitarian aid to Ukraine from the first moment this war unfolded, he noted, and he underlined the country's concern for the safety of ethnic Greeks in Ukraine.

Greece, he added, continuously contributes to NATO's strengthening, readiness and response to the Russian threat, and it also contributes to the allies' planned defense spendingt; it also continues its active participation in NATO operations, missions and activities.

He stressed that Greece supported the mammoth package of sanctions approved by the European Union, in coordination with the United States, the United Kingdom and Canada. He also noted the significant cost of these sanctions for NATO allies and EU member states.

Additionally,  Panagiotopoulos also met with his Turkish counterpart Hulusi Akar on the sidelines NATO Defence Ministers meeting.

"Underlined during the meeting was the importance of reducing tension and establishing a climate of security in the Eastern Mediterranean, based on the rule of international law and the principles of good neighbour relations. In this context, it was agreed to meet in the future for talks on Confidence Building Measures," a defence ministry announcement said.