Mitsotakis, Merz to Meet in Berlin Amid Eurofighter, Migration Concerns

08:39 13/5/2025 - Πηγή: iEfimerida

Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis will meet German Chancellor Friedrich Merz in Berlin later Tuesday, the first foreign leader to visit since Merz took office, as the two seek to strengthen bilateral ties and address key European challenges.

Economic cooperation, defense issues, and migration policy

are expected to top the agenda, with Greece aiming to solidify its position as a stable partner in Europe.

The meeting comes as Athens expresses concerns over a potential sale of Eurofighter jets to Turkey, which Greece opposes unless Ankara commits to respecting international agreements.

“Defense programs must not be used to threaten allied countries,” said Greek government spokesman Pavlos Marinakis on Monday, signaling Athens’ firm stance.

The Eurofighter issue remains unresolved among the producing nations—Germany, Britain, Italy, and Spain—and is likely to test European defense unity.

The visit underscores improving relations between Greece and Germany, strained during the eurozone debt crisis.

Mr. Mitsotakis has cultivated a close relationship with Merz since he took over the Christian Democratic Union (CDU).

With its economy recovering, Greece seeks a larger role in Europe’s economic and geopolitical future. “Greece is no longer the black sheep of Europe,” a senior Greek official said ahead of the meeting.

Migration remains a shared challenge.

Germany faces domestic pressure from the far-right, while Greece advocates for stronger EU border protection. Both leaders are expected to call for a common European approach. A German government spokesperson said that the German migration policy will be resolved in harmony with European neighbors.

The talks follow Mr. Mitsotakis’ recent meeting with Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, where they discussed the shifting balance of power within the EU.

“Southern economies are now growing faster than many in the north, proving that we can implement bold reforms,” Mr. Mitsotakis said.

The Berlin meeting signals a broader effort to strengthen EU strategic autonomy while maintaining transatlantic ties. Mr. Mitsotakis and Chancellor Merz are expected to align on defense priorities that reflect Europe’s foreign policy interests.

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