Greece to Lead Middle East Peace Initiatives, Says Foreign Affairs Minister

Greece will take significant steps to address the Middle East conflict, Foreign Affairs Minister George Gerapetritis announced during an interview with state broadcaster ERT TV.

This follows his participation in the “Call for Action: Urgent Humanitarian Response for Gaza” conference held at the Dead Sea in Jordan, organized by the King of Jordan, the President of Egypt, and the UN Secretary-General.

Gerapetritis emphasised Greece’s ability to facilitate dialogue among all parties involved, highlighting the nation’s role in supporting international efforts to end hostilities in the Middle East. “It is a universal demand of all of Europe and the world to stop this nightmare,” he stated.

Greece will spearhead several initiatives aimed at achieving beneficial outcomes in the region. Notably, Gerapetritis proposed to the European Union’s Council of Foreign Affairs the establishment of a special group of foreign ministers from the EU and the Arab world to assist in adopting the peace process. Additionally, he suggested forming an EU group to aid in the institutional reform of a new Palestinian state, alongside his counterparts from Portugal and Denmark.

Describing the situation in the region as “dramatic,” Gerapetritis underscored the urgent need for an immediate ceasefire, the release of hostages, and the reconstruction of Gaza. Greece fully supports US President Joe Biden’s comprehensive plan, which calls for an immediate ceasefire, the release of hostages, and the return of displaced Palestinians to their homes.

Read more: Greece’s Stance on War in Gaza

(Source: Amna)