Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis said Greece supports European defence autonomy as he arrived at the White Palace in Ankara for the second day of the NATO Summit.
“We are defenders of European defence autonomy,” Mitsotakis said, stressing that Europe’s strategic autonomy is not a competitor to NATO but a strong European pillar that can strengthen the alliance.
He added that Greece is already among the top five NATO countries that have reached the target of spending 3.5% of GDP on pure defence expenditure in 2026.
Middle East ceasefire discussed
Mitsotakis also referred to developments in the Middle East, expressing hope that the ceasefire between the United States and Iran will hold.
Asked about US President Donald Trump’s remarks and his meeting with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, the Greek Prime Minister said he would not comment on previous statements.
Call for good neighbourly relations
Mitsotakis said NATO should be based on the fundamental principles of good neighbourly relations.
“My country faces a constant threat of war from Turkey. We must remain prepared, and I believe the sensitivities of all allies must be taken into account,” he said.
Mitsotakis’ NATO summit comments came as he called for issues between allies to be addressed through cooperation and dialogue.
He added that he is always pleased to visit Ankara and has consistently supported improving relations between Greece and Turkey.
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