Referring to developments in Libyathe Foreign Minister said that Greece has never abandoned this critical area: ‘Turkey is very active in Libya and in general in Africawith a policy clearly expanding. But we never left Libya. On the contrary, we have successfully restored the relationship, activating all channels on both sides. I will soon visit both East and Western Libya. “
By emphasizing the beginning of the credible partner, Mr. Gerapetritis emphasized that Athens is not going to play redemption games in Libya: “Greece will never enter the bidding and redemption logic. We stand in our principles and have many “weapons in our quiver”. The notorious Turkolibych Memorandum is non -existent, invalid and opposite to international law. Whatever signs it, it does not produce a legal result. “
In terms of migrationthe minister referred to the geopolitical dimensions that go beyond the limits of Libya: “All sub -Saharan Africa is plagued by conflict and volatility supplies the southern corridor. Greece made tough decisions, mainly in border surveillance. The sea is open, we do not want to risk human lives – but so far our politics is fruitful. ” Mr Gerapetritis also said that he would raise the issue of maritime zones to the Libyan authorities: “I will ask both sides to start substantial discussions on the EEZ.”
Also, as he said, “soon the announcements about marine parks in the Ionian Sea and the South Aegean are coming. This is a great environmental initiative that will also have a geopolitical footprint – we know that these actions will provoke reactions from neighboring countries, but Greece will not be inactive. “
Responding to criticism, the Foreign Minister stressed: “Good criticism, but good and self -criticism. The truth is that we are activating what has been inactive for decades. I accept that reactions are caused, but I challenge every bona fide judge to see the map of our plans. “
He also noted the importance of international investment interest referred to Chevron and its willingness to research hydrocarbons in Greece, saying it is not only economic but also investing in political stability and respect for international law.
Referring to Greek -Turkish, he noted that “Greece operates in a dynamic environment. We do not do trading policy, fortunately we do not choose international law “as they seek”. We support our principles firmly – this is what makes us reliable allies. ” We keep open channels, we have diodes in the US and elsewhere. Relations with Turkey are functional, without solving all the big issues. We do not want Greece to live with our finger permanently – we have reduced migratory flows, limited violations, he underlined.
Responding to criticism, George Gerapetritis said: “I know that sometimes I am completely unpopular. I could have been more popular with screams, voices and threats against Turkey – but I prefer to serve my homeland with consistency and seriousness. Anyone who blames me for anesthesia, let’s show exactly where we have lost something. ” Especially for the personal attacks he receives, he said: “The expressions against me have exceeded any threshold of vulgarity. How I have been described is a punch in the stomach. If I thought the vulgar criticism was done by those who care about homeland I would have left. But I know there are self -motivation, “he said, stressing that the responsible patriot must tell the truth to his citizens, not flattering them.
In closing, he sent the following message: I am not a political career but first citizen. I chose to stand against my fellow citizens with a sense of responsibility. My goal is not to be in my place, but to serve my homeland.
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