Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis met with Lebanese Prime Minister Najib Mikati and Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri in Beirut on Monday, December 16. Mitsotakis was the first European leader to visit Lebanon since the November 27 ceasefire was announced.
During the talks, Mitsotakis expressed Greece’s commitment to supporting Lebanon’s peace and stability. He emphasised the need to implement the ceasefire, which he described as crucial for regional security.
Greece pledged to support Lebanon’s state institutions and its armed forces, which are responsible for enforcing the ceasefire.
Mitsotakis praised international mediation efforts by the United States and France, calling the ceasefire “a significant step forward” for the region.
“It is crucial to ensure that people on both sides of the border have the right to live in peace without the threat of bombs and rockets destroying their lives,” he said.
He also called for the full implementation of UN Resolution 1701, which supports Lebanon’s sovereignty and aims to secure lasting peace.
The Greek Prime Minister discussed the broader regional impact of the Syria conflict, stressing the need to protect Syria’s unity, sovereignty, and cultural heritage. He highlighted the importance of supporting displaced Syrians, many of whom have taken refuge in Lebanon. Mitsotakis said Greece is committed to helping Lebanon manage the migration challenges linked to the conflict.
During his visit, Mitsotakis also met with religious leaders, including Patriarch John I of Antioch and Metropolitan Elias of Beirut, as well as members of the Greek community in Beirut. He reiterated Greece’s longstanding friendship with Lebanon, underscoring the historical ties and shared values between the two nations.
Mitsotakis noted that Greece had facilitated the evacuation of its citizens from Lebanon during the conflict and stands ready to offer further assistance.
Source: AMNA.gr
