Minister of Foreign Affairs Nikos Dendias’ address at the “Law of the Sea” Forum (Kastellorizo, 21.7.2022)

Ladies and Gentlemen,

It is a great pleasure to be participating virtually at the “Law of the Sea” Forum. A topic of utmost importance for my country.

Greece is a founding member of the United Nations and a Member State of the European Union. Greece has always been a strong supporter of International law and a rules-based international order. We spare no efforts to underline the benefits of an international law-abiding stance in interstate relations. In accordance with the principles enshrined in the UN Charter.

Greece is opposed to any threat or use of force in settling maritime disputes. This being firmly committed to the principle of peaceful settlement of international disputes.

We consistently develop our policies and actions based on International law and in particular the UNCLOS, which reflects customary international law.

On this basis Greece has concluded maritime delimitation Agreements with its neighbors. Greece and Italy concluded in June 2020 the Agreement on the delimitation of their maritime zones. Two months later, in August 2020, Greece and Egypt signed an Agreement, providing for the partial delimitation of their exclusive economic zones. Both Agreements were concluded in full conformity with the relevant provisions of the UNCLOS.

Ladies and Gentlemen,

Greece aims at contributing to peace and stability in general and in the Aegean Sea and the Eastern Mediterranean, in particular.

By concluding, I would like to congratulate the World Hellenic Inter-Parliamentary Association and the Region of South Aegean for organizing this pertinent and timely event.

Thank you.