On Tuesday, Greek President Katerina Sakellaropoulou received Egyptian Foreign Minister Sameh Shoukry at the Presidential Palace, in Athens.
During the meeting, Shoukry and Sakellaropoulou discussed the latest regional developments in the eastern Mediterranean and the situation in Libya. Turkish activities in the region were also part of the discussions.
The two also cited the need for peaceful solutions for all outstanding issues in the region, including in Libya, Syria, and Palestine. They noted these files have a great effect on the stability of Egypt and Greece, according to a statement released by the Egyptian MoFA, following the meeting.
The Egyptian FM discussed the maritime demarcation deal signed by Cairo and Athens. He described it as an example of the mutual understanding between the two countries, to achieve stability in the region. Shoukry also praised the historical and distinctive ties between Egypt and Greece. They claimed these relations were of a strategic nature, based on mutual understanding and mutual interests.
On 7 August, Egypt and Greece signed an agreement establishing an exclusive economic zone (EEZ), between the two countries’ borders for oil and gas drilling rights. Shoukry stressed that the agreement is in line with international law, and the law of the sea.
Tensions have been rising in the eastern Mediterranean in recent months, amid Turkish claims to drilling rights in the region.