Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis engaged in a series of high-level meetings with European leaders during the European People’s Party (EPP) Congress taking place in Valencia, Spain from April 29 to April 30. His meetings highlighted Greece’s active role in shaping the European Union’s political and strategic agenda.

Among the key meetings was a bilateral with Friedrich Merz, leader of Germany’s CDU parliamentary group and Chancellor-elect. Greece’s prime minister congratulated Merz on his recent electoral victory and expressed his eagerness to work closely with the incoming German government on a range of bilateral and European issues.

The two leaders discussed the future of European defense and the economy, particularly in light of current geopolitical developments.

Mitsotakis also welcomed Merz’s decision to establish a dedicated Ministry of Digital Governance in Germany, a move they had previously discussed during a January meeting in Berlin. The Greek prime minister emphasized that Greece’s own experience with a similar ministry had significantly modernized the state’s operations and enhanced digital services.

In a separate meeting, Mitsotakis met with Finnish Prime Minister Petteri Orpo. Their discussions focused on European security and defense strategy, with both leaders aligning on the urgent need for a stronger and more coordinated EU defense policy.

Mitsotakis stressed that enhancing Europe’s defense capabilities is now a pressing necessity. He also highlighted that any EU defense cooperation with non-member states must align with the Union’s strategic interests and respect the security concerns of all member states.

The prime minister also met with Moldovan President Maia Sandu. Their talks covered the latest developments in Europe as well as opportunities for closer bilateral cooperation, particularly in the energy and investment sectors. Mitsotakis reaffirmed Greece’s strong support for Moldova’s European integration path and accepted Sandu’s invitation to visit the country in the near future.

Rounding out his diplomatic engagements, Mitsotakis held talks with Boyko Borissov, former Prime Minister of Bulgaria and leader of the GERB party.