BRUSSELS (ANA-MPA/ E. Apostolidou) Foreign Minister George Gerapetritis, arriving at the EU Foreign Affairs Council on Monday, spoke about the escalating crisis in the Middle East and the importance of freedom of navigation. He emphasized Greece’s position in favor of international law, the protection of civilians, and the diplomatic resolution of conflicts.
Gerapetritis, in his statement, said that the Foreign Affairs Council is meeting on Monday amid an escalating crisis in the broader Middle East. Greece has, as a matter of principle, supported the universal application of international law, respect for the rights of civilians and, of course, a return to diplomacy instead of war, he added.
In particular, with regard to freedom of navigation, he said that Greece supports the free movement of all vessels in the wider region and calls on Iran to respect the rules of international maritime law. The ‘Aspides’ operation is already operating in the broader region, in which only two member states of the European Union participate.
Greece stands in solidarity with the countries that are affected, the countries of the Gulf, and provides open assistance to Cyprus. It is not Greece’s intention to become involved in the war. Particularly regarding freedom of navigation, I would like to stress how critical it is—not only for oil prices but also for the entire supply chain—that the seas remain open.
He also said that he would raise with his European colleagues the issue of the attack against a Greek vessel in international waters in the Black Sea. It is clear that on this matter, he added, there must be absolute condemnation and accountability. It is self-evident that at such moments, which are extremely critical and whose consequences may be extremely significant – not only geopolitically but also economically and environmentally for the Mediterranean – Europe must rise to the occasion and assume a leadership role, he said.