Greek Foreign Minister Gerapetritis Visits Middle East Amid Ceasefire Developments

Greek Foreign Minister George Gerapetritis is undertaking an official visit to the Middle East, as the region experiences a ceasefire in Gaza and Lebanon alongside significant developments in Syria.

According to diplomatic sources, Gerapetritis is among the first European foreign ministers to visit the region following the ceasefire in Gaza. Greece is positioning itself as an active and reliable interlocutor in Middle Eastern affairs, maintaining strategic relations with Israel while preserving its longstanding ties with the Arab world.

The Greek government has expressed its commitment to fostering stability and humanitarian aid in the region. Diplomatic sources highlight Greece’s willingness to offer its good offices to facilitate the provision of humanitarian assistance and contribute to consolidating peace and prosperity.

Discussions during Gerapetritis’ meetings with regional counterparts have focused on shaping the future of the Middle East. Additionally, talks have addressed Greece’s upcoming tenure as an elected member of the United Nations Security Council for 2025-2026.

As part of his diplomatic engagements, Gerapetritis met on Monday with Palestinian Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Mohammad Mustafa. During their meeting, he emphasized the importance of the ceasefire agreement and the urgent need for an uninterrupted flow of humanitarian aid to Gaza, alongside efforts to rehabilitate critical infrastructure. He also reaffirmed Greece’s leading role within the European Union in strengthening the institutions of the Palestinian Authority through the provision of expertise and support.

In Jerusalem, Gerapetritis held discussions with Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar. Expressing support for the ceasefire and the agreement for the release of hostages, the Greek Foreign Minister stressed the necessity of ensuring the safe return of all hostages. The two officials also reviewed regional developments and explored ways to enhance the strategic partnership between Greece and Israel.

Further highlighting Greece’s longstanding cultural and religious ties in the region, Gerapetritis was honored by the Patriarch of Jerusalem, Theophilos III, during a formal ceremony. Earlier in the day, the Greek Foreign Minister met with the Patriarch to discuss issues concerning the Patriarchate, reinforcing Greece’s commitment to its historical and religious connections in the Holy Land.

Source: pagenews.gr