At the initiative of the General Director of National Defence Policy and International Relations of the Hellenic Ministry of National Defence, Dr. Konstantinos P. Balomenos, it was held this afternoon, Friday June 24, 2022, an informal teleconference with the Defence Policy Directors of France, Spain, Italy, Portugal, Cyprus and Malta, which mainly focused on the challenges and threats in the Mediterranean.

During the discussion, which was coordinated by the General Director of National Defence Policy and International Relations, the above officials discussed ways to expand their cooperation and coordination on Mediterranean issues that are of common interest and raise common concerns.

Mr Balomenos stressed that the current developments in Ukraine do not entail the mitigation of the security threats and challenges facing the Mediterranean, but rather add to an already turbulent security environment. He praised the importance of maritime security in the Mediterranean as a factor for EU security, economic growth, free trade, transport and energy security.

In addition, there has been extensive reference to hybrid threats and the potential consequences that a new escalation of the migration crisis may cause, requiring timely coordination and synchronisation of actions. In addition, Dr. Balomenos stressed the crucial role of Greece, which due to its geography, is called upon to safeguard the borders of the EU, in the face of such a threat.

Finally, the General Director of National Defence Policy & International Relations urged his counterparts, on the basis of their common interest in Mediterranean issues, to coordinate and promote common positions within the framework of the European fora, in order to address the important issues on a case-by-case basis.