Greece will move ahead with the expansion of its territorial waters, alongside initiatives on maritime spatial planning and marine parks, Foreign Minister George Gerapetritis announced from the floor of Parliament. Responding to a question from independent MPs aligned with the new but out-of-Parliament Movement for Democracy party, he stressed that “the country’s national power has acquired a strong and tangible footprint.”
Referring to Greek-Turkish relations, Gerapetritis said the ongoing dialogue with Ankara is grounded in the legal framework of the Athens Declaration and is already delivering results—most notably a reduction in irregular migration flows. “Ask our 12 islands,” he said, “which can now sustain themselves year-round thanks to tourism.”
Emphasizing the importance of stability, the foreign minister underscored that peace in the region is vital, while making clear that issues of national sovereignty are non-negotiable. “I commit myself before Parliament: there will be no concessions whatsoever in our international relations. We are not merely equals—we are in a position of real strength. This government has faced reality head-on,” he said.
Addressing Turkey directly, Gerapetritis noted that while Ankara’s revisionist dogma known as the “Blue Homeland” has not disappeared, Greece has firmly articulated its own position through maritime spatial planning. “Our stance is clearly recorded—at the level of the European acquis. This government delivered maritime spatial planning,” he said.
Regarding Cyprus, the minister reiterated that the of the island republic’s division “is and will remain our immediate priority.” He highlighted the power interconnection project (GSI) as a major strategic objective, describing it as critically important and fully supported by the Greek side.
Gerapetritis also referenced the Hellenic Navy’s latest acquisition of its first Belharra-type frigate ‘Kimon’, calling for unity in recognizing major national achievements. “It is good to stand together in the face of great national successes—and to acknowledge them collectively, especially in relation to international law,” he said.
The minister further commented on Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis’ statement on Venezuela, noting that it was “more forward-leaning than that of any other European leader.” Legal aspects, he said, would be assessed, while Greece’s position was registered with the United Nations in less than 48 hours— “befitting a strong state fully committed to international law.”
Finally, regarding the situation in Iran, Gerapetritis said Greece had taken a very firm stance based on international law, adding that the Greek people understand the country continues to serve as “an island of stability and prosperity” in a volatile region.
