Deputy Minister to the Prime Minister and government spokesperson Pavlos Marinakis stated that the government is committed to avoiding military involvement in the Middle East while safeguarding Greek-owned vessels.
“There is absolutely no question of our country becoming involved. However, Greece is not naive. We remain vigilant, and there is a firm determination made in the KYSEA to ensure the protection of Greek interests at sea,” he emphasized during a briefing with political editors.
Addressing a complex and concerning situation, the government spokesperson mentioned that the Prime Minister has urged the involved parties to resume negotiations, reiterating the government’s stance that Iran must not develop a nuclear arsenal.
Marinakis reassured citizens, stating there’s no reason for alarm, and if families require assistance due to any sudden increase in costs, “we will be here to provide support.”
“The Prime Minister has made a significant announcement that complements our prior actions. Greece has pioneered effective solutions to the migration crisis,” he remarked. The government is prepared and desires to maintain border security. “Fortunately, for the past six years, we have had a government that acknowledges our maritime boundaries,” he stated.
When questioned about maritime zones, Marinakis asserted that there are no discussions underway and deemed the Turcolibian memorandum as unfounded. “We advocate for dialogue, and our actions are carefully considered; maintaining communication channels with both sides of Libya is essential,” he noted, emphasizing that Greece is taking all necessary steps. “Despite the predictions of those who are overly optimistic, Greece is being validated,” he added.
Urgent Protection for Christian Communities in Syria
Expressing sorrow and outrage over the assault on the Greek Orthodox Church in Damascus, he called for immediate action from the Greek government. “The necessity to safeguard Christian populations is especially pressing,” he observed, adding that such events cause significant concern.
On Turkey
In response to inquiries about Turkey’s attempts to highlight a supposed “Turkish” minority in Thrace and an alleged “Turkish” community in the Dodecanese, which provoked reactions from several countries, Marinakis stated, “This development reflects the foreign policy principles the Greek government upholds. We promote adherence to international law,” while noting that the countries’ responses are a rebuttal to those critiquing foreign policy from an uninformed perspective.
Regarding the OPEKEPE Case
When asked about the OPEKEPE case, the spokesperson confirmed that the case file will be sent to Parliament to explore the potential responsibilities of former Rural Development ministers, Makis Voridis and Lefteris Aygenakis.
“A report does not equate to a formal designation of criminal responsibility,” he clarified, explaining that by Greek law, even mentioning a political figure necessitates referral to Parliament.
“Regarding OPEKEPE, the government has acted appropriately to address the troubling situation. Our country has lost billions due to this unfortunate phenomenon, and we will pursue the recovery of funds from those who wrongfully received them,” he stated, adding that the judiciary will proceed with its role in the matter. “We will review the file and the report, and once we have clarity, we will respond,” he concluded.
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