Gerapetritis: Greece’s Global Role Strengthened, Opposition’s Negativity “Damages the Country”

Foreign Affairs Minister George Gerapetritis defended Greece’s foreign policy on Thursday, stressing that the country’s international standing has grown stronger and is not accurately reflected in the opposition’s criticisms.

Addressing Parliament at the request of Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis, Gerapetritis accused opposition parties of misrepresenting Greece’s diplomatic achievements and foreign relations. “Greece is present everywhere,” he said, rejecting claims made by party leaders about the country’s alleged diplomatic absences or controversial defense decisions.

The minister cited as examples PASOK leader Nikos Androulakis’ assertion that Türkiye is part of the EU’s SAFE defense fund, SYRIZA leader Sokratis Famellos’ claim that Greece is excluded from international conferences, Communist Party leader Dimitris Koutsoubas’ warning that Greece might send troops to Ukraine, and Nea Aristera leader Alexis Charitsis’ concern over possible U.S. F-35 sales to Türkiye. “All of these are untrue,” Gerapetritis said, noting that no such troop deployment is under discussion and that the U.S. Senate is not currently inclined to approve F-35 sales to Ankara.

Relations with Türkiye

On Greek-Turkish relations, Gerapetritis underlined the government’s commitment to dialogue and stability. “We have important and enduring differences with Türkiye,” he said, “but geography binds us together. Our decision is to engage in structured dialogue that ensures calm and prevents crises, while strengthening our diplomatic position.”

Libya and the Mediterranean

The minister also highlighted Greece’s unique diplomatic role in Libya, noting that it is the only European country maintaining contact with both sides of the conflict. He added that the Libyan median line “respects the Greek position” regarding the continental shelf and exclusive economic zone, while irregular migration flows from Libya “have nearly dropped to zero.”

Strengthened International Role

Gerapetritis emphasized Greece’s “strong global footprint,” citing its election as a non-permanent member of the UN Security Council, expanding strategic partnerships with Egypt and India, and strong relations with the United States, Gulf states, and Middle Eastern countries.

“Greece today enjoys a powerful international presence, supported by a resilient economy, robust defense, and a credible, outward-looking foreign policy,” he said. “The image presented by the opposition is at odds with reality—and such political negativity harms the country.”

(Source: Amna)