“The situation in the wider Middle East is highly tense and complex, raising concerns for the European Union and causing significant disruptions to global security,” stated Foreign Minister Giorgos Gerapetritis as he arrived at the European Union Foreign Affairs Council.
He particularly highlighted the terrorist attack on the Prophet Elias Church in Damascus, where worshippers lost their lives, calling it a senseless act that underscores both the heightened tensions and the imbalances in the current threats.
In this context, Gerapetritis mentioned his proposal of a 5-point plan to the Foreign Affairs Council aimed at establishing a European presence.
“First, we need a political resolution achieved through self-restraint and de-escalation. Second, we must ensure the protection of all civilians and the safeguarding of freedom of navigation. Third, there needs to be robust engagement from the European Union in ongoing processes. Additionally, we can’t overlook Gaza, as all issues are interconnected. We should enhance our efforts to maintain a steady flow of humanitarian aid to Gaza and provide further support to the Palestinian Authority in addressing its challenges,” he emphasized.
“The Middle Eastern issues also extend to Syria and Libya, where we are witnessing increased migration flows. It is the European Union’s responsibility to manage these irregular migration patterns effectively. Of course, this must be done in full compliance with International Law, particularly the International Law of the Sea,” he concluded.
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