Foreign Policy
After Brexit vote, Tsipras stresses need for political response to EU shortcomings
Greek Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras chose a rather political response to the result of the UK referendum on Friday, highlighting the European Union’s failings and calling for progressive forces in the EU to make more of an impact on the decision-making process.
Athens sweats on outcome of UK referendum
In line with other European capitals there is a growing concern in Athens about the possibility of Britons voting in favour of leaving the European Union in Thursday’s referendum.
Camp conditions and fragile EU-Turkey agreement risks for Greece in refugee crisis
The ongoing challenges of dealing with the refugee crisis were brought back into sharp focus on Wednesday night when several people were injured at the Moria camp on Lesvos following fights and a fire.
Putin visit highlights potential, but also limitations, of Greece-Russia ties
There was much enthusiasm in Athens about Russian President Vladimir Putin’s visit on Friday and Saturday, which highlighted the potential for closer ties between Greece and Russia but also the limitations facing their relationship.
Tsipras and Erdogan seek ways to overcome Greek-Turkish tension
Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan emerged from a meeting in Istanbul on Monday with a seemingly common desire to improve relations between their two countries, which have been tested by recent events.
Slow pace of returns and relocations leaves refugee crisis finely balanced
The refugee crisis is back in the spotlight, and for reasons that indicate Greece still finds itself in a precarious position that could deteriorate rapidly if the agreement between the European Union and Turkey falls apart in the coming months.
Inauguration of TAP pipeline project offers investment, diplomatic boost
The signing of the agreement for the construction of the Trans-Adriatic Pipeline (TAP) in Thessaloniki marks a significant moment for Greece in diplomatic and investment terms.
Greece seeks to mend fences with Austria but frets about EU-Turkey deal
Foreign Minister Nikos Kotzias' decision to visit Vienna this week has been viewed as a goodwill gesture from Athens in a bid to restore its relations with Austria, which had been sorely tested by the refugee crisis.
Davutoglu departure prompts concern about Turkish unpredictability in Athens
Greece is keeping a closer eye on developments in Turkey as a result of Prime Minister Ahmet Davutoglu’s decision to step down at an extraordinary congress of his ruling AK Party later this month following a major row with president, Recep Tayyip Erdogan.
EU progress on Turkish visas gives Athens hope of low refugee arrivals
Greek concerns that slow progress in the European Union’s liberalisation of visas for Turkish citizens might undermine cooperation on the migrant issue are set to be allayed this week.