His meeting lasted forty-five minutes. Alexis Tsipras To Anthony Blinken. In the presence of Giorgos Katrougalos, Vangelis Kalpadakis and the staff of the US Foreign Secretary, President SYRIZA had the opportunity to discuss with Mr Blinken Greek-American relations, Greek-Turkish, events in Ukrainebut also his point of view on the new role of the United States in his region southeastern mediterranean. The leader of the official opposition stressed that the war in Ukraine has led to increased tension in Greek-Turkish relations, increased Turkish aggression and competition on the southern flank of NATO. He added that the role of the US cannot be limited to arms sales to Greece and post-violation statements, as well as sending messages of tolerance for Turkish aggression (EastMed pipeline, F-16 sale).

In this context, he pointed out that the atmosphere of solidarity and cooperation after the deadly earthquakes in Turkey should be used to create a new dynamic in Greek-Turkish relations by promoting a meaningful dialogue based on international law with the aim of attracting to The Hague for the continental shelf/EEZ. He stressed that the US must play a critical role in pressuring Turkey to advance dialogue with two clear red lines, in line with the principles they emphasize internationally: the territorial integrity of Greece and its right to defend the territorial integrity of its islands with military forces. presence.

Cypriot

During the meeting, the former Prime Minister noted that after the elections, every effort must be made to resume negotiations for a fair and sustainable solution to the Cyprus issue on the basis of UN decisions, without guarantees and occupying troops. In this context, the President of SYRIZA referred to the proposals presented by him both on the interconnection of Greek-Turkish and Euro-Turkish relations, and on the expansion of the territorial waters of Greece in the Eastern Mediterranean and the delimitation of the EEZ. coastal shelf with neighboring countries, with Cyprus on the table.

At the same time, he stressed the need for the international community to take the lead in stopping the illegal and bloody Russian invasion of Ukraine and returning Moscow to diplomacy. He added that it is the choice of each country how to show solidarity with the Ukrainian people in their struggle, based on their principles, their geopolitical position and the threats they face. With regard to Greece, he said that it can contribute in accordance with its role as a pillar of peace and stability in the region, without sending military equipment, and even from its islands.