“This meeting comes at a critical juncture, not only for the Middle East but also for the wider Gulf region. The crisis that is unfolding at the moment raises serious challenges, not only for regional peace and security, but has wider, profound implications that extend far beyond our region and certainly affect the economies of all of us.” This was stressed, among other things, by Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis in the introduction of his address to the 5th Greece-Cyprus-Jordan Summit in Amman, Jordan.
Mitsotakis went on to say that “this trilateral meeting sends a very clear and timely message. It is a message of friendship, it is a message of cooperation, it is a message of unwavering commitment to international law and peaceful coexistence.”
Greece and Cyprus, Cyprus and Greece act as a natural “bridge” between Jordan, the Middle East, the Gulf countries and the European Union, he added.
The Prime Minister’s introductory statement:
Your Majesty, dear Niko, I am delighted that we are meeting once again for this 5th Trilateral Summit, and I would like to thank you warmly, Your Majesty, for hosting us here in beautiful Amman.
This meeting is indeed taking place at a critical juncture, not only for the Middle East but also for the wider Gulf region. The crisis that is unfolding right now raises serious challenges, not only for regional peace and security, but has broader, deeper implications that extend far beyond our region and certainly affect the economies of all of us.
I believe that, in this context, this trilateral meeting sends a very clear and timely message. It is a message of friendship, it is a message of cooperation, it is a message of unwavering commitment to international law and to peaceful coexistence.
And in this light, Your Majesty, let me express our deep appreciation for your leadership. Jordan plays a key role as a pillar of stability in the region, your work as a custodian of holy sites and your unwavering commitment to maintaining the status quo is highly appreciated at a time when peaceful coexistence of religious communities is of paramount importance. I know how much importance you attach to this particular issue.
As Nikos mentioned, Greece and Cyprus, Cyprus and Greece act as a natural “bridge” between Jordan, the Middle East, the Gulf countries and the European Union. Congratulations to Nikos for organising a highly successful Summit in Cyprus.
We in the European Council, Your Majesty, have consistently advocated to our EU partners what we call a 360-degree integrated approach. Your security, your security, your prosperity are inextricably linked to ours, and what happens in the Eastern Mediterranean and your region is very important for the security and prosperity of the European Union as a whole.
I believe that our cooperation has already produced significant, tangible results, contributing to the development and prosperity of our peoples. However, I believe we can set much higher goals. The agenda is broad, as it should be. We can work together more in the areas of energy, investment, connectivity, defence, tourism and climate action.
We will, of course, have the opportunity to exchange views on developments in the region. I have come here from Abu Dhabi. The situation in the wider region is obviously of particular concern to us. Perhaps there is reason for some cautious optimism, but I think it is important now to make sure that we all call for a de-escalation of tensions and the diplomatic route.
As far as the Strait of Hormuz is concerned, we want to be very clear: we must return to the previous status quo. We are strong advocates of defending the concept of freedom of navigation. We have done so as non-permanent members of the United Nations Security Council, and I believe this is an area that is a shared priority for all our countries.
We will also have the opportunity to discuss recent developments in Lebanon, where we support the government, the need for the ceasefire to be fully respected, and the need for the government to be able to exercise its sovereignty over the entire territory of Lebanon.
As far as Gaza is concerned, I think it is crucial that we move to the next phase of the peace plan. To support the reform of the Palestinian Authority and remain firmly committed to the only viable path to a lasting peace, which is a two-state solution.
Thank you very much, Your Majesty, for your hospitality, and I look forward to a constructive exchange of views.
