The Minister of National Defense Mr. Nikolaos Panagiotopoulos participated in the Informal Meeting of its counterparts in the E.U. held in Prague on 29 and 30 August 2022.

During the discussion on the developments in Ukraine, the Minister expressed his concern regarding the serious effects of the war in Ukraine, while pointing out the need to coordinate efforts to end it.

He underlined the need to strengthen European defense and security and ensure unity in the face of Russian aggression, based on the Strategic Compass of the European Union.

Mr. Panagiotopoulos underlined the importance of Europe’s strategic autonomy, and the contribution, in this context, of future programs, such as the joint procurement of defense equipment, based on the EU Regulation Proposal. for Joint Supplies and their exemption from VAT.

In addition, he mentioned the feasibility of excluding common defense equipment procurement from the existing budget deficit criteria.

As part of the work of the Synod, a working lunch of the Ministers of Defense was held, with the participation of the Ministry of Defense of Ukraine and. Oleksii Reznikov via video conference (VTC).

Mr. Panagiotopoulos expressed our country’s support towards the Ukrainian people being tested, as well as the Greek Government’s firm position in favor of the territorial integrity, sovereignty and independence of Ukraine. He also pointed out the Greek contribution in defense material, medical supplies and humanitarian aid, as well as the importance of full implementation of the sanctions against Russia.

He also mentioned that during the discussion on the proposal of the E.U. of Military Assistance to Ukraine, for military training, a set of aspects and factors related to its development must be taken into account.

On the sidelines of the work of the Synod, the Minister of National Defense had meetings with the Deputy Minister of Defense (Parliamentary State Secretary) of the Federal Ministry of Defense of Germany, Ms. Siemtje Möller and the Minister of Defense of France Mr. Sébastian Lecornuduring which issues of bilateral cooperation and mutual interest were discussed.