Greek Foreign Minister Hosts French Ministers for Lunch Amidst Strengthened Ties

Athens buzzed with diplomatic activity as Greek Foreign Minister Giorgos Gerapetritis welcomed French ministers for a convivial lunch at the King George hotel. This gathering, held immediately after the landmark signing of nine bilateral agreements and joint statements by Prime Ministers Kyriakos Mitsotakis and Emmanuel Macron, underscored the deepening strategic alliance between Greece and France.

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It is a great honor and pleasure to welcome you today to Athens. The ties between our two countries are timeless and particularly strong.

The atmosphere was described as particularly pleasant, filled with informal conversations and "πηγαδάκια" (small informal gatherings for discussion), reflecting the warm and collaborative spirit of the occasion. The presence of key Greek ministers, including those for Economy, Defense, and Development, alongside prominent figures like Dora Bakoyannis, signaled the comprehensive nature of the strengthened ties.

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We thank you all warmly for your presence. We welcome you at an excellent time, as well as at a particularly critical juncture for our continent and for the world. Today we are further strengthening our strategic partnership, both at the geopolitical and diplomatic and economic level. This is a new era in our relations.

Minister Gerapetritis emphasized the historic and robust relationship between the two nations, noting that 2026 will mark 200 years of diplomatic relations. He highlighted that diplomatic ties were established even before the formal creation of the Greek state, underscoring the profound historical connection and shared vision. This sentiment was echoed by the French delegation, reinforcing the idea of a 'new era' in Greco-French cooperation.

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In three years from today we will celebrate 200 years of diplomatic relations. It is impressive that we established diplomatic ties even before the official establishment of the Greek state, a fact that highlights the depth of our historical relationship and our common vision.

From a Greek perspective, this event is more than just a diplomatic meal; it represents a significant affirmation of our country's strategic importance and its role within Europe. The strengthening of ties with France, a key EU and NATO ally, is particularly crucial during these turbulent geopolitical times. While international media might focus on the economic or security implications of the agreements, for Greece, this is also about celebrating a shared history and building a future based on mutual trust and strategic alignment. The warmth and camaraderie evident at the lunch signal a genuine partnership, vital for navigating the challenges ahead.

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I am truly particularly happy to be here with you today and to have the opportunity to host you, along with our colleagues and friends.