Minister of Foreign Affairs Nikos Dendias’ address at the Solidarity Conference “Standing with the Ukrainian people” (Paris, 13.12.2022)
?xcellences,
J’aimerais bien féliciter le Président Macron pour cette initiative très pertinente, en cooperation avec President Zelensky. Cette Conférence a lieu, a l’heure ou les défis pour le peuple Ukrainien multiplient. Permettez-moi de continuer en anglais.
Respect of territorial integrity and national sovereignty, as well as abstaining from the use- or the threat of use- of force are fundamental principles of international law. Those are the main pillars of Greece’s foreign policy.
Our support towards the territorial integrity and national sovereignty of Ukraine is principled and unwavering. Through the provision of political, military, financial and humanitarian support.
?his Conference is taking place at a critical time, the beginning of winter, facing a high risk of a humanitarian crisis. We need to ensure Ukraine’s resilience. We also need to contribute, in the post-war era, to the reconstruction of the country.
Greece has already provided, and continues to provide, humanitarian assistance, including substantial quantities of medicines and supplies.
Furthermore, we have pledged financial assistance through International Organisations: UNICEF and UNHCR. Approximately 100.000 Ukrainian refugees have been hosted in Greece, entitled to accommodation, health care and access to education.
In addition, it is worth highlighting that 49.74% of the total volume of products exported from Ukraine is with fleets of Greek interests. At the same time, we stand ready to assist all efforts in establishing alternative supply routes for gas, through the units in Alexandroupolis.
We are concerned about the members of the Greek community, notably those who lived in areas razed to the ground like Mariupol. But also in Odessa and Zaporizhia.
Excellencies,
Let me finish by saying that Greece is committed to contributing, through this collective effort, in a practical and immediate way to address the ongoing challenge in Ukraine.
Thank you so much.
Source: Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Hellenic Republic