The relevant Greek and Serbian public order ministers on Wednesday announced that joint police patrols, Greek police officers and their Serbian counterparts, will be stationed at popular summer holiday destinations in Greece favored by tourists from the neighboring country, such as verdant Halkidiki prefecture in the north and the Ionian Sea Island of Zakynthos.
Likewise, Greek police officers will temporarily serve in Serbia.
The announcement came during a meeting in Athens between Citizens’ Protection Minister Michalis Chrisochoidis and his Serbian counterpart, Internal Affairs Minister Ivica Dacic. This meeting was also attended by Greek Police’s (EL.AS) leadership and a visiting contingent of senior officials from the Serbian ministry and police, along with Belgrade’s ambassador in Athens, Nikola Nedeljković.
Citizens’ Protection Minister Michalis Chrisochoidis, left, with Serbia’s Internal Affairs Minister, Ivica Dacic, in Athens on Wednesday, Feb. 18, 2026.
In a later ministry statement, Chrisochoidis stressed that the long-standing friendly ties between the two nations provide a solid foundation for further enhancing bilateral cooperation. He noted that their shared goal is the safety of citizens and regional stability, at a time when the region faces multiple daily challenges.
He placed particular emphasis on combating organized crime, human trafficking networks, smuggling and drug trafficking.
On his part, Dacic highlighted the already strong cooperation between Greek and Serbian authorities, especially in tackling organized crime. He also proposed expanding cooperation to include other countries, such as Bulgaria.
The Serbian minister also raised the issue of simplifying border checks for Serbian nationals visiting Greece, particularly during the summer months.
