The Minister of National Defence Mr. Nikolaos Panagiotopoulos, today Thursday 2 January 2020, gave an interview to “Open” Channel, commenting on current developments.
Regarding the signing of the Interstate Agreement between Greece, the Republic of Cyprus and Israel for the EastMed natural gas pipeline, the Minister highlighted that it is tangible evidence on the three states’ intention to create synergies so as to play their role to the production and transportation of hydrocarbon resources in the Mediterranean.
In his reply to a question concerning the prospect of escalation of Turkey’s challenges, Mr. Panagiotopoulos underlined that “our key principle is that no one should threaten our sovereign rights. We are not afraid. We consider all possibilities and prepare for all eventualities”
Commenting on President Erdogan’s stance, he mentioned that “at times he reminds me of someone who is trying to revive the old Ottoman Empire. However, he finds a “wall” of countries opposed to him, objecting to Turkey’s expansionism”.
Referring to an older statement from Evangelos Apostolakis, that in case of engagement with Turkey we will be alone, he argued that “in the case of a military engagement, we will certainly be alone. However, we have built and deepened alliances, on account of which our national rights are being heard, aiming at never having to reach our last resort, that is to say military engagement”.
Replying to a question on the purchase of French frigates, he emphasized that it is “on the table”, yet there are various issues to be sorted out, among which the financial issue; he also underlined that “we will buy the product we want, according to our Navy’s standards”.
On Greece’s possible participation to F-35 aircraft coproduction programme, Mr. Panagiotopoulos mentioned that it is being considered and the US side will probably put it on the table for discussion at a meeting to be held in Washington.
Regarding the wages of the military, he pointed out that targeted interventions will be made depending on the availability of budget funds; as for the increase of military service, he claimed that it is not among the key priorities at the Ministry of National Defence.
Finally, commenting on the Armed Forces’ contribution to the areas struck by adverse weather, Mr. Panagiotopoulos underlined that the Armed Forces are “a well-oiled machine which knows how it should be activated for difficult tasks and how to resolve problems, helping people who suffer in such emergencies”.
