Greek Prime Minister Mitsotakis Discusses F-35 Purchase and Tourism with Turkey

Yesterday, Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis discussed various topics during an interview on state television ERT.

He mentioned that Greece’s request to purchase F-35s from the US is progressing and he expects a response from the US soon.

Regarding Turkey’s request to purchase F-16s from the US, Mitsotakis stated that Greece neither opposes nor has the ability to influence the sale of defense equipment to another country.

Mitsotakis also mentioned his upcoming visit to the US to attend an investment forum in New York. He plans to present investment opportunities in Greece to American investors.

In terms of tourism, Mitsotakis highlighted the recent normalization of relations between Turkey and Greece. He announced that starting in March, a visa application will be implemented to facilitate the entry of Turkish tourists to 10 Greek islands. He believes this agreement will be permanent and beneficial for both countries.

Mitsotakis emphasized the improved dialogue and cooperation between Turkey and Greece in order to enhance trade and address the issue of irregular migration.

Regarding the disputes in the Aegean, Mitsotakis acknowledged the complex nature of the region’s geography. He emphasized that while a resolution may not come overnight, Greece will approach the issue in good faith and assert its red lines. Additionally, he mentioned the positive impact of the general optimistic mood surrounding the issue.

The Greek islands that will be visa-free for Turkish citizens, according to Dimitris Keridis, the Minister of Immigration and Asylum, are Chios, Lesbos, Rhodes, Samos, Kos, Meis, Patmos, Leros, Kalymnos, and Simi.