Greece’s Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis has been forced to postpone today’s official trip to Lebanon on account of an aircraft malfunction, says SKAI news agency.
The trip is considered to be highly symbolic as he will be the first leader of an EU country to visit Beiruit after the declared ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah.
The news report add that the trip will likely be rescheduled to tomorrow, by which time the government’s aircraft is expected to have been repaired.
About the Visit to Lebanon
Greek PM Kyriakos Mitsotakis was scheduled to visit Beirut today to meet with his counterpart, Najib Mikati, and greet Greek-Lebanese residents of the capital city.
“The visit is highly symbolic and important as Kyriakos Mitsotakis is the first leader of a third country and member of the EU to visit Beirut after the ceasefire agreement and sends a message of stability and peace and a message of the strong role and presence of Greece in the region,” said the Greek government spokesperson Pavlos Marinakis.
“In his discussions with the Lebanese Prime Minister, he will reiterate Greece’s readiness to contribute to the strengthening of Lebanon’s state structures, including the armed forces, which play a crucial role in maintaining the ceasefire. He will also meet with the Greek community in Lebanon,” Mr. Marinakis said.
Throughout the most recent middle east conflict, Greece has maintained its role as a provider or humanitarian aid, with the country’s foreign ministry delivering aid to strife-plagued Lebanon aboard a Hellenic Air Force C-130 transport plane in October.
The humanitarian aid was mostly comprised of medical supplies and pharmaceuticals, as well as basic necessities.
