Video: https://youtu.be/VxwBgvO53_A
Today, the first official institutional meeting between the European Commission and the new Greek Government was held in Athens.
The issues of my portfolio, namely security and migration, were the main topics of discussion, especially in view of the important Informal Meeting of Ministers for Justice and Home Affairs in Helsinki that will take place in a few days.
The situation in the wider region, and in particular in the so-called eastern migratory route, was presented. There have been recent flows but in cooperation with the European Commission, they are being managed effectively and the situation remains under full control.
The Greek Prime Minister ensured that all measures will be taken to prepare for the future and for any unforeseen events, always in co-operation with the European Commission.
Greece plays a key role for the stability of the wider region but also bears the responsibility for securing proper and efficient management of the European borders. The Government, fully aware of itsown mission and our support, will certainly do its best to manage the issues of security and especially of migration, that is here to stay for many years.
Greece is not alone. On migration, even though the country experienced difficult moments in the past few years five years ago, we are no longer at the same point. It is certain, that given the willingness and determination of the Government to address these challenges and with the full operational, political and financial support to Greece by the European Commission, addressing these challenges will be even more effective in the future.
Greece is a country of solidarity and responsibility and the European Commission will continue to stand by its side.
Since this was the first official meeting of the new Greek Government with the European Commission, I also had the opportunity to congratulate the Prime Minister of Greece and the new government on taking up their duties and to confirm once again that we will continue to be next to Greece and the Greek government.
As I have repeatedly stated, I may be European Commissioner, but my heart and my mind are always with my home country, which I am confident that in this fresh start will find the full support of the European Commission in order to address all its challenges, from migration to the economy, in the most effective manner.
(reply to question on EU-Turkey cooperation)
Cooperation with Turkey is part of the EU-Turkey Statement and is essential both at EU level and bilaterally between Greece and Turkey. I believe that with good will, positive attitude and good cooperation, positive results will follow.