Defence Minister of Greece and Israel express determination to further strengthen bilateral strategic relations

Defence Minister Nikos Panagiotoulos and visiting Israeli Defence Minister Yoav Gallant on Thursday stressed the two countries’ common will and determination to further enhance strategic relations with new actions, in statements after meetings between the two ministers and their delegations held in Athens. They also mentioned the international training centre of the Air Force in Kalamata.

Referring to the war in Ukraine, Panagiotopoulos said that it constitutes a clear violation of international law by Russia. He added that aggressive revisionism was a major challenge and a threat to the global rule of law.
On developments in the Eastern Mediterranean, he pointed out both countries’ strong volition to address the challenges by supporting initiatives for stability and security in the region.

At the same time, he said that Greece’s initiatives are guided by respect for the rules of international law, sovereign rights and good neighbour relations. On his part, the Israeli minister referred to the relations of the two countries in the sectors of defence, information and industry, which contribute to  security and to the Greek and Israeli economy. As regards cooperation in the exchange of information, he reminded those present of the recent arrest of two terrorists in Greece who were preparing attacks against Israeli targets.

At the same time, he made it clear that Israel will not allow Iran to complete its nuclear programme or supply weapons to terror organisations in Syria and Lebanon, while he also pointed out the Palestinian attack with missiles against innocent citizens. Finally, he said that both Greece and Israel are a bridge of stability in the region, dealing with threats for the benefit of both their peoples.

Source: amna.gr