The significance of Emmanuel Macron's visit to Greece and Cyprus
- Written by E.Tsiliopoulos
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Emmanuel Macron’s successive visits to Nicosia and Athens highlight France’s keen interest in the Eastern Mediterranean, as well as the formation of an informal trilateral defense cooperation with Greece and Cyprus. The French president arrives in the Greek capital today from the EU summit in Nicosia, with the main objective of renewing the Greece-France strategic agreement.
France has proven over time that it is a reliable ally for Greece, especially in times of tension with Turkey. Its support, however, is not only based on political convergence, but also on shared geopolitical interests, such as strengthening the European security core with the participation of Greece and Cyprus.
The President of Cyprus, Nikos Christodoulides, described Macron’s visit as historic, stressing that it confirms the momentum of bilateral relations. He also pointed out that this is the second visit by the French president in a few weeks, an indication of deepening cooperation.
The focus of the visit to Athens is the renewal of the 2021 defense agreement, which includes a clause on mutual assistance in the event of a violation of sovereignty. The new framework maintains this clause and expands it to areas such as innovation and civil protection.
Military cooperation between the two countries is constantly being strengthened, with joint exercises and armament programs. Greece has already purchased 24 Dassault Rafale fighters and FDI frigates, while further proposals are being considered, such as submarines and the
modernization of land forces.
At the same time, France seeks to strengthen Europe's strategic autonomy, even proposing to host nuclear aircraft in allied countries, including Greece.
Overall, the Greek-French relationship is strengthening in a period of geopolitical uncertainty, confirming that, despite individual disagreements, France remains a stable and important partner for Greece and Cyprus.
Overall, the Greek-French relationship is strengthening in a period of geopolitical uncertainty, confirming that, despite individual disagreements, France remains a stable and important partner for Greece and Cyprus.
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