Greece’s Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis on Monday became the first Western leader to visit Lebanon after the ceasefire with Israel, where he met with Lebanese Prime Minister Najib Mikati.
“You know the strong ties between Lebanon and Greece, I don’t need to repeat them, they are well known. The fact that I am the first foreign leader to visit Lebanon after the ceasefire and the developments in Syria means a lot to me. We have a lot to discuss,” he said.
Furthermore, Mitsotakis emphasized that implementing the ceasefire is crucial for the well-being and stability of the people in the region.
According to an Athens Macedonia News Agency (AMNA) report, the Greek delegation discussed with the Lebanese hosts ways in which Greece could assist the Lebanese Armed Forces, which are tasked with the effective implementation of the ceasefire. Greece has already been participating in the naval component of UNIFIL since 2006, with a frigate and personnel.
Mitsotakis: Need to maintain the ceasefire
Mitsotakis reiterated Greece’s position in favor of unity, territorial integrity, and the sovereignty of Syria and stressed that the next day in Syria must safeguard all religious communities and citizens of Syria.
“We are at a critical point in the process. The ceasefire agreement with Israel marks a significant step forward in the context of the ongoing challenges facing the region, and we view it as a positive development. The mediation efforts, led by the United States and France, are commendable and have led to this important development, the full implementation of which is vital.
“It is crucial to ensure that people on both sides of the border have the right to live in peace without the threat of bombs and rockets destroying their lives,” Mitsotakis said.
He added that the international community, including Greece, must do everything in its power to maintain the ceasefire and implement Resolution 1701, which guarantees full respect for the territorial integrity and sovereignty of the country and paves the way for long-term security for its people.
Israel accused of violating ceasefire in Lebanon
Three people were injured on Monday in an Israeli drone strike in southern Lebanon, in the latest violation of a cease-fire deal, the Health Ministry said. Lebanese authorities have reported around 228 Israeli violations since the cease-fire deal between Israel and Lebanon came into force on Nov. 27.
Under the cease-fire terms, Israel is required to withdraw its forces south of the Blue Line – a de facto border – in phases, while the Lebanese army is to deploy in southern Lebanon within 60 days.
The Lebanese prime minister expressed the belief that “in a way we are neighbors,” adding that “Cyprus and Greece are so close to us and we always strive for the best relationship.”
Mitsotakis meets with the Patriarch of Antioch in Lebanon
Earlier Mitsotakis met the Patriarch of Antioch John X who praised Greece’s support for Lebanon, saying: “This visit reflects Greece’s commitment to Lebanon’s stability, aiding the presidential election process and strengthening constitutional institutions.”
Discussions also touched on Syria’s new government, with the Patriarch urging Greece to promote peace across the Middle East, lift sanctions, and ensure dignity for all people, particularly in Lebanon, Syria, Gaza, and Palestine.
“We reminded the Prime Minister of our roots here,” John X stated. “We are not guests; we are integral to this region.” He assured Christian communities: “Do not fear—we remain steadfast in rebuilding our nations together.”