Minister of Foreign Affairs Nikos Dendias’ address, via video-recorded message, at the first Black Sea Security Conference of the International Crimea Platform, in Bucharest (13.04.2023)

Dear colleagues,

It is an honor to participate in the first Black Sea Security Conference of the International Crimea Platform.

Allow me to congratulate Romania and Ukraine for this important initiative.

More than a year after the invasion, the people of Ukraine continue their fight for the independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity of their country.

Russia’s unprovoked and unjustified war of aggression is a violation of the core principles of International Law and the UN Charter.

The very principles and values that unite us and keep us safe.

Since the first day, we stood by Ukraine’s side in full solidarity, providing all necessary assistance and support.  

Stressing that revisionist ambitions should not be left unanswered.

Russia’s war of aggression has triggered significant shifts in the strategic landscape of the Black Sea basin.

A region the stability of which is a top priority for Greece.

At the Madrid Summit, NATO acknowledged-for the first time- the Black Sea Region as an area of “strategic importance for the Alliance”.

In this regard, we ensured that the port of Alexandroupolis greatly facilitates the transit of equipment for the defense of Ukraine.

Greece is also investing in the development of infrastructure that will further upgrade energy security in southern and eastern Europe.

Emerging challenges, also related to technological progress, underscore the need to strengthen our resilience.

And to further interact with EU and NATO partners,such as Ukraine, Moldova and Georgia, in the Black Sea area.

We must assist them in building their military capacity and defense capabilities and enhance their overall readiness and resilience.

Thank you.