German FM Baerbock: Greece one of our closest partners in Europe

"The cohesion of our allies in NATO has never before been as important as it is at this time, during which Russia is not only planning to subjugate Ukraine as a sovereign country but also trying by every means to divide our Alliance," she said, noting that it was very important for her and "especially now" to carry out her first trip to Greece and Turkey.

"Greece, for most Germans, is familiar as a holiday destination but only a few are aware of the extent of the responsibility that burdens Germany as a result of the horrific crimes committed there by the Nazi occupation in WWII" she said, adding that "for me it's very important to keep the memory alive because this is a prerequisite for a good common future."

Referring to security in the Mediterranean, she underlined that it will form be a major part of her talks in Istanbul and Ankara. "Our message will be that the problems should be resolved with dialogue not with the escalation of the tension," she said.

"Turkey," she pointed out, "is a necessary partner and connected with us as no other country. The heart of millions of people beats for both countries and that's why it is so important for me that we do not get further apart politically. As in any close relationship, we will speak openly: about Turkey's intervention in the Black Sea which brings a ray of hope for millions of people that an even worse hunger crisis can be prevented."