Greek Foreign Minister Giorgios Gerapetritis urges the U.S. and Europe to monitor Syria’s Islamist regime amid rising violence and civilian casualties. He advocates for gradual sanctions relief conditionally based on inclusivity and compliance with international law. His remarks extend to Turkey’s maritime claims affecting Greece and strengthening ties with India for new trade routes, aiming to counter China’s influence.
The recent violence in Syria under the new Islamist regime has prompted Greek Foreign Minister Giorgios Gerapetritis to urge the United States and Europe to maintain vigilance. Over the weekend, clashes resulted in numerous civilian fatalities, prompting Gerapetritis to emphasize the necessity for international oversight and the inclusion of religious minorities in governance to ensure stability in the region.
Gerapetritis highlighted the importance of gradual sanctions relief contingent on the regime’s adherence to international law. He stated, “The release of sanctions should take place mostly on a gradual basis. We need to see how it goes,” indicating that any lifting should be reversible.
Following intense fighting between the newly established governing body HTS and loyalists of former leader Bashar al-Assad, the reported death toll exceeded 1,000, including hundreds of civilians. The United Nations expressed concern about the killings and called for an immediate cessation of violence.
As the conflict escalated, transitional president Ahmed al-Sharaa acknowledged the challenges faced by the new regime and advocated for national unity. The United States and Russia have also called for a U.N. Security Council meeting to address the violence in Syria.
Gerapetritis voiced his apprehension regarding Turkey’s Blue Homeland Doctrine, which he argued violates international law and has led to Turkish military incursions into Greek waters. Despite easing tensions between Greece and Turkey in recent years, he emphasized the need for significant discussions regarding maritime boundaries.
Additionally, Gerapetritis affirmed Greece’s expanding relations with India, positioning the country as a vital link in a proposed Middle East-Europe corridor. This initiative aims to diversify trade routes and challenge China’s Belt and Road Initiative, diverting financial dependence towards alternative partnerships.
The Greek Foreign Minister reiterated the necessity of fostering independent cooperation with nations like the United States, stating, “We are very like-minded with the United States when it comes to foreign and security policy.” This sentiment reflects Greece’s commitment to enhancing its geopolitical role in the Eastern Mediterranean and countering external influences.
In summary, the Greek Foreign Minister underscores the critical situation in Syria, calling for international attention to ensure the inclusion of minorities in governance and adherence to international law. As violence escalates, the need for a strategic approach towards Turkey and fostering new partnerships beyond traditional alliances is emphasized, showcasing Greece’s evolving role in regional stability and international trade routes.
Original Source: www.foxnews.com
