Greek and Italian Foreign Ministers discuss security and energy issues in Rome

In a press statement, Dendias said they spoke about developments in the Mediterranean following the two memoranda signed by Turkey and the Tripoli government on maritime zones. "We both believe that these memoranda are illegal and groundless, they cause the region's destabilization and they threaten peace," Dendias said. "They also recharge civil war in Libya." He added that there are attempts "to hijack Greek sovereign rights" as well, the minister said.

Dendias and Di Maio also discussed energy security issues and "agreed on the added value of the EastMed" natural gas pipeline for both countries. "We expect that Italy will sign a relevant agreement soon" on the pipeline, which will transport gas from the East Mediterranean to Italy. The EastMed agreement has been signed by Greece, Cyprus and Israel.

An Italian Foreign Ministry statement said that the ministers recognize the EastMed as an EU project of common interest and agreed that Exclusive Economic Zone and continental shelf issues between the two countries must be resolved through negotiations in good faith, with full respect of international law and according to rules of good neighborliness.

"Only through sincere collaboration will natural resources in the Mediterranean prove to benefit all peoples living in the area," the Italian Foreign Ministry said.