A new chapter in Greece -Italy’s relations opened the meeting of Kyriakos Mitsotakis with Georgia Meloni in Rome as part of the meeting of the Supreme Cooperation Council of the two countries. The focus was on the common European challenges, with migration and defense spikes, as well as important bilateral agreements in the fields of railways and energy.
On the railway, a Memorandum of Understanding was signed between the Greek Ministry of Infrastructure and the Italian State Group Ferrovie Dello Stato (owner of the Hellenic Train), which provides for investments of 360 million euros. Includes the supply of 23 new trains – 8 intercity and 15 suburban – the upgrading of trains and the creation of a state -of -the -art training center. The group’s commitments will be included in a new contract with clauses for the timetables and an obligation to implement the security system.
At the same time, a Memorandum of Understanding was signed between ADMIE and the Italian TERNA manager to upgrade the electrical interconnection of the two countries. The aim is to triple the interconnection capacity from 500 to 1,500 MW, a development that consolidates Greece’s position as an energy hub for Southeast Europe and a clean energy provider to Italy and the rest of the EU.
The talks confirmed the strategic convergence of Athens – Rome on issues of common European interest. In the refugee – migratory, the two sides emphasized the need for effective border guarding, fighting illegal trafficking and a radical change in the EU’s immigration policy, with respect to the particular pressures of front -line countries.
Kyriakos Mitsotakis also sent a clear message about European defense, stressing that only countries that are aligned with EU foreign policy and interests. They can play a role in such shapes. The reference is considered indirect but clear message to Turkey, which is trying to strengthen its position through its partnership with the Italian defense industry.
At the same time, the Greek Prime Minister referred to the importance of maintaining transatlantic relationships, I indirectly addressed the US and in particular to President Donald Trump, with whom Georgia Melon has close relationships. The message was double: European unity while maintaining a strategic relationship with Washington.