German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul arrives in Athens on Monday for an official visit focused on regional security, EU coordination and strengthening bilateral ties, amid shifting geopolitical dynamics and uncertainty over U.S. commitments to NATO.
Wadephul is scheduled to meet his Greek counterpart, Giorgos Gerapetritis, at the Greek Foreign Ministry around noon, followed by expanded talks between the two delegations. Joint press statements are expected at 1:50 p.m., before the German minister meets Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis at Maximos Mansion at approximately 3:00 p.m.
Focus on Ukraine, Middle East and NATO
Discussions will center on regional developments, particularly the wars in Ukraine and the Middle East, with both sides expected to reaffirm alignment on international law and express support for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Lebanon.
Athens and Berlin are also set to coordinate positions within the European Union and NATO, especially following a decision by Donald Trump to withdraw around 5,000 U.S. troops from NATO bases in Germany.
Both countries have made clear they do not intend to become directly involved in the Middle East conflict, while jointly calling for the restoration of freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz.
Defense and EU enlargement on the agenda
The talks are also expected to address strengthening the EU’s defense capabilities, amid what officials describe as ambiguous signals from Washington regarding future NATO participation.
EU enlargement will be another key topic, with a focus on accelerating the accession process for Western Balkan countries. Wadephul has already expressed support for Greece’s initiative to advance enlargement by the second half of 2027, when Greece will hold the presidency of the Council of the European Union, with the aim of integrating at least one of the six Western Balkan states.
Gerapetritis is expected to brief his German counterpart on the recent signing of the Delphi Declaration and his upcoming diplomatic tour of the Western Balkans. Germany has backed Greece’s efforts to provide technical assistance to the six countries, keeping their EU prospects active during a period of geopolitical uncertainty.
Bilateral relations and outstanding issues
On bilateral matters, the two ministers will discuss expanding cooperation in the economy, trade, investment, renewable energy and migration.
Gerapetritis is also expected to raise again the issue of the “practical removal of the last burdens of the past,” echoing discussions held during his visit to Berlin in March.
Wadephul’s remarks are also anticipated on Cyprus and Turkey. During their previous meeting, the German minister supported the prospect of Cyprus joining NATO and indicated Germany’s willingness to mediate with Turkey if needed to facilitate such discussions.
