Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis and his Italian counterpart Giorgia Meloni on Monday pledged to deepen bilateral cooperation on energy, defence and migration, following a High Cooperation Council meeting in Athens.
“This was not a formal diplomatic encounter, but a substantive opportunity to align our steps on key issues – from regional developments to migration,” Mitsotakis said during a joint press conference with Meloni.
He underscored the strong political, historical and economic ties between the two Mediterranean countries, noting that both face common challenges in a volatile international environment.
Mitsotakis called for more frequent meetings of the High Cooperation Council and said the joint statement signed with Meloni marked a step forward in strategic cooperation. “We aim to triple our cooperation on electric interconnection between our two countries,” he said.
The Greek leader also highlighted a new agreement with Italy’s state railway company, describing it as a reset in bilateral transport relations following the deadly Tempi train crash in 2023. Under the deal, Greece will invest over 400 million euros in rail infrastructure and safety systems, while Italy will contribute 360 million euros for new trains and depots.
Talks also covered economic ties and bilateral trade.
On migration, Mitsotakis said the two countries were shifting focus away from internal redistribution of refugees. “We are prioritising border protection, dismantling smuggling networks, enhancing returns, and reorganising legal migration frameworks,” he said.
Turning to foreign policy, Mitsotakis reiterated support for a 30-day unconditional ceasefire in Ukraine.
He also called for stronger European defence capabilities and closer Greek-Italian cooperation in the sector. “We agree that cooperation with the United States is essential for securing a mutually beneficial trade agreement. We must avoid a trade war and do everything to keep the West united,” he said.