The Minister of National Defence Mr. Panos Panagiotopoulos , coming out of the Maximos Mansion after the completion of the Governmental Council’s on Foreign Policy and National Defence meeting, made the following statement:

“First of all, many wishes to all. May this year be a year of optimism, so that we will be able to smile, we all need it, and see the first rays of light.

We had this year’s first meeting of the Governmental Council on Foreign Policy and National Defence on matters of its pertinence. The subject is well known. The relevant decisions were made, so that we can move forward. The Prime Minister’s and the Government’s decision is given; the country must remain fully protected as far as national security and defence are concerned. All appropriate actions and provisions are taken.

We had the chance to also discuss with the Prime Minister matters generally related to the Armed Forces. Mr. Antonis Samaras’ interest in the men and women serving in the Armed Forces is standard. The message he asked us to convey is a message of public praise for the work done in the Armed Forces by all personnel serving in them. The work that proves devotion to their mission, assigned to the Armed Forces by the Constitution, our people and our country. Be well, many happy returns”.