Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis is on an official visit in Lebanon this Monday Dec. 16. The prime minister’s visit contains high symbolism as he is the first EU leader to visit the country after the ceasefire agreement of Nov. 204 was put in effect.
First on his agenda was a meeting with the Patriarch of Antioch, John X, in the presence of the Metropolitan of Beirut, Elias. Later, he met with the Speaker of the Lebanese Parliament, Nabih Berri, at the Ain el-Tineh Palace, before meeting with the Lebanese Prime Minister, Najib Mikati, at the Grand Serail.
From Lebanon Mitsotakis conveyed Greece’s intention to support peace in the region and help the country leave political turmoil behind.
“We want to be a force for peace and stability. We are in a position to engage in dialogue with everyone, and I am here today in Lebanon to convey a message of the need to safeguard the much-desired ceasefire and to take all necessary steps to resolve Lebanon’s political crisis,” he stated.
Mitsotakis made particular reference to the longstanding strong bond between the two countries. “I am particularly pleased to be here to demonstrate our strong commitment to your country. You are well aware of the deep ties between Lebanon and Greece,” he noted.
During his meeting with his Lebanese counterpart Mitsotakis emphasized how important it is for him to be the first foreign leader to visit Lebanon following the ceasefire and recent developments in Syria. “We have much to discuss,” said the Greek prime minister to his Lebanese counterpart.
“Exactly,” Lebanon’s prime minister replied, adding: “I believe that, in a way, we are neighbors.” He further affirmed the close ties his country has always had with Cyprus and Greece. “We always strive for the best possible relationship,” Mikati stated.
