Greece and France are set to sign a renewed defense cooperation agreement during a high-level meeting between Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis and French President Emmanuel Macron in Athens.
The signing takes place at the prime minister’s office following a symbolic visit by the two leaders to a naval frigate, underscoring the importance of defense ties between the two countries.
Meeting between Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis and the President of France Emmanuel Macron at the Maximos Mansion, Saturday, April 25, 2026. (ΣΩΤΗΡΗΣ ΔΗΜΗΤΡΟΠΟΥΛΟΣ/EUROKINISSI)
Long-Term Defense Partnership
The updated agreement builds on an existing defense pact signed in 2021 and introduces a more long-term framework. While maintaining a five-year duration, the new version no longer requires renewal upon expiration, effectively giving the partnership greater continuity.
Meeting between Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis and the President of France Emmanuel Macron at the Maximos Mansion, Saturday, April 25, 2026. (ΣΩΤΗΡΗΣ ΔΗΜΗΤΡΟΠΟΥΛΟΣ/EUROKINISSI)
The agreement also includes a mutual assistance clause in case either country comes under attack, reinforcing security cooperation. Greek officials indicate that the deal may be complemented in the future by additional defense procurement from France.
Broader Strategic Cooperation
Beyond defense, the two leaders are also expected to sign an enhanced strategic partnership agreement covering a wide range of sectors. These include economic cooperation, civil protection, migration policy and innovation.
The expanded framework signals a deeper alignment between the two countries across multiple policy areas.
Meeting between Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis and the President of France Emmanuel Macron at the Maximos Mansion, Saturday, April 25, 2026.(ΓΙΩΡΓΟΣ ΚΟΝΤΑΡΙΝΗΣ/EUROKINISSI)
European Security in Focus
Discussions between the two sides highlight a shared view that Europe is entering a period of increased geopolitical challenges. Both governments have stressed the need for stronger European defense capabilities, with less reliance on external partners.
Meeting between Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis and the President of France Emmanuel Macron at the Maximos Mansion, Saturday, April 25, 2026. (ΓΙΩΡΓΟΣ ΚΟΝΤΑΡΙΝΗΣ/EUROKINISSI)
This perspective reflects growing momentum within Europe to strengthen strategic autonomy in security and defense matters.
Further Engagements
Following the signing ceremony and joint statements to the press, the two leaders are scheduled to attend a business forum aimed at strengthening economic ties between the two countries.
They will also visit a cultural exhibition, marking the broader diplomatic and cultural dimension of the visit.
Συνάντηση του πρωθυπουργού Κυριάκου Μητσοτάκη με τον πρόεδρο της Γαλλίας Emmanuel Macron, στο Μέγαρο Μαξίμου, Σάββατο 25 Απριλίου 2026. (ΓΙΩΡΓΟΣ ΚΟΝΤΑΡΙΝΗΣ/EUROKINISSI)
