The Greek Current

Earlier this month at the G20 summit the US and the EU backed an ambitious plan to build an economic corridor linking Europe with the Middle East and India via rail and sea. Greece is set to play an important geostrategic role on this corridor, as Greek ports would serve as the gateway into Europe. The announcement at the G20 summit followed a trip that India’s Prime Minister Modi made to Greece in late August for the launch, as Greek Prime Minister Mitsotakis put it, of the two countries’ “strategic partnership.” Dr. Spyros Economides, an Associate Professor in International Relations and European Politics at the London School of Economics and Deputy Director of the Hellenic Observatory, joins Thanos Davelis to look into India’s new “silk road”, Greece’s important role in it, and its growing ties with India.You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:Greece on India’s ‘silk road’G20: EU and US back trade corridor linking Europe, Middle East and IndiaA new relationship that’s 2,500 years oldCyprus says Lebanon needs EU aid to deal with migration crisisNagorno-Karabakh: More than 40,000 refugees flee to Armenia'I left to stay alive': Nagorno-Karabakh empties of ethnic Armenians

In 2021, despite warnings about items from its collections being sold by private persons, the British Museum chose not to view the matter “with much alarm.” This summer it became known that more than 2,000 items were stolen from the British Museum over a long period of time. This undoubtedly raises questions about the safety of countless artifacts, and has some asking whether it will affect the demand for the reunification of the Parthenon Sculptures. Angelos Chaniotis, a professor of ancient history and Classics at the Institute for Advanced Study in Princeton, joins Thanos Davelis to look at what this crisis means for the British Museum, and explore whether it could impact efforts aimed at reuniting the Parthenon Sculptures.Read Prof. Angelos Chaniotis’ latest article in Kathimerini: The Parthenon Sculptures – now that the British Museum has lost its charmYou can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:Strengthening the US-Greece security relationshipGreece is planning a major regularization program for migrants to cope with labor crunchSeeking migration deal with Turkey

Reports indicate that after a number of delays Greece can expect movement on its request to purchase F-35 fighter jets in the coming weeks, with the Biden administration expected to send a formal notification to Congress. At the same time, October is shaping up to be a crucial month for the issue of the potential sale of F-16s to Turkey, as the US will be watching to see if Turkey’s Parliament, which is set to reconvene in October, will approve Sweden’s NATO membership bid. Lena Argiri, the DC correspondent for ERT - the Greek public broadcasting company, joins Thanos Davelis with the latest reports from Washington as we look at what to expect in the coming weeks on the F-35s for Greece and the F-16 saga with Turkey. We also look back at the UNGA, recapping the key takeaways from a packed week for both Greece and Cyprus.You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:Εξοπλιστικά: «Ξεκλειδώνει» η πώληση των F-35 στην Ελλάδα – Μήνας εξελίξεων ο ΟκτώβριοςGreece’s leftist Syriza gets new leader: An ex-bankerPolitical neophyte Stefanos Kasselakis elected new leader of Greece’s main opposition Syriza partyCentral Greece braces for onslaught of Storm Elias

This Sunday supporters of SYRIZA, Greece’s second largest party, will head to the polls to select a new leader, as Stefanos Kasselakis, the surprise winner in the first round elections, faces Effie Achtsioglou in what’s expected to be a close showdown that will define the future of the party. As the race for who will take the reins of SYRIZA heats up, Greeks have begun to look more closely into Stefanos Kasselakis, who remains a largely unvetted newcomer on the political scene. Nikos Efstathiou, a journalist and author from Athens and the current Managing Editor at the magazine LiFO, joins me to discuss SYRIZA’s increasingly contentious leadership race and the impact Stefanos Kasselakis has had on Greece’s political scene.You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:SYRIZA polarized ahead of final showdownCountdown to SYRIZA election showdownMitsotakis says achieving investment grade improves Greece’s borrowing costsMigrant flows surge in last two months

Last week the Biden administration imposed sanctions on five Turkish companies and a Turkish national, accusing them of helping Russia evade sanctions and supporting Moscow in its war against Ukraine. US officials have repeatedly pushed Turkey to crack down on Russian circumvention of sanctions, particularly when it comes to the export of chemicals, microchips and other products that can be used in Moscow's war effort. Expert Sinan Ciddi joins Thanos Davelis to look at this latest round of sanctions, which underscore that despite repeated warnings, Turkey continues to help fuel Russia’s war machine.Sinan Ciddi is a non-resident senior fellow at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies (FDD), where he contributes to FDD’s Turkey Program and Center on Military and Political Power (CMPP). He is also an Associate Professor of Security Studies at the Command and Staff College-Marine Corps University and Georgetown University’s School of Foreign Service.Read Sinan Ciddi’s latest here:U.S. Sanctions Turkish Entities for Fueling Russia’s War MachineMr. Erdoğan in New York: A Transactional Foreign Policy Should be Repaid in KindYou can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:Thousands of Greeks rally as state workers strike over labour law plansControversial labour law set to usher in radical changes to employment practicesCyprus and Chevron unite for Aphrodite gas field

On Wednesday Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis held a much anticipated meeting with Turkish President Erdogan on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly. The two leaders agreed to continue working to deepen the positive climate in Greek-Turkish relations that has been established this year, laid out a roadmap of contacts for the coming months, and discussed issues of common interest such as migration and the climate crisis. Vassilis Nedos, Kathimerini’s diplomatic and defense editor, joins Thanos Davelis to look at how the two leaders are expected to build on the positive atmosphere we’ve seen these past months, while looking ahead at what we can expect to see as part of this positive agenda. You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:Roadmap amid calm waters in the AegeanGreek, Turkish leaders to confirm improved climateMitsotakis-Erdogan: Keeping the process on a positive trackThe Greek-Turkish dialogue and the Cyprus issueNagorno-Karabakh: thousands protest in Armenia in wake of ceasefire dealAzerbaijan halts Karabakh offensive after ceasefire deal with Armenian separatistsThe U.S. Keeps Failing Armenians in Nagorno-KarabakhClimate change made storm Daniel far more likely and intense, scientists say

As the week kicked off at the UN in New York, Turkish President Erdogan sat with PBS NewsHour for a one on one interview, where he talked about Turkey’s relations with the US, with Greece, the state of human rights in his country, and his ties to Putin’s Russia. Aside from his outbursts at journalist Amna Nawaz over her questions on human rights, Erdogan also raised eyebrows with his statements on Russia, which he said he trusts just as much as the West, and his comment that Senator Bob Menendez isn’t familiar with Turkey after a question about Congress and the potential sale of F-16s. Endy Zemenides, the Executive Director of the Hellenic American Leadership Council, joins Thanos Davelis to discuss this interview and break down what else we need to look out for when it comes to Hellenic issues at the UNGA this week.You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:Turkey’s Erdogan says he trusts Russia ‘just as much as I trust the West’Mitsotakis-Erdogan: Keeping the process on a positive trackCyprus talks to be discussed on sidelines of UN assembly in New YorkChristodoulides' UN call: A bold push for Cyprus reunificationAzerbaijan launches attack in Nagorno-Karabakh, announces ‘evacuation’ of Armenian populationNagorno-Karabakh: death toll rises as latest violence condemned by Russia and USAzerbaijan launches operation against Nagorno-Karabakh and demands surrenderGreek, Turkish leaders to confirm improved climate

A new political season has kicked off in Greece this month as voters went to the polls to elect a new leader for Greece’s main opposition party, SYRIZA, on Sunday, while Prime Minister Mitsotakis outlined his government’s priorities at the Thessaloniki International Fair in the wake of the devastating wildfires in August and the deadly floods in Thessaly. Amid these developments, voters are also preparing for local elections which are on the horizon. Yannis Palaiologos, a journalist at-large with Kathimerini, joins Thanos Davelis to look at the new political season unfolding in Greece, from the battle over the future leadership of SYRIZA to the Mitsotakis government’s efforts to set a new agenda in the wake of wildfires and floods.You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:SYRIZA: Kasselakis, Achtsioglou headed to a runoffSYRIZA’s Kasselakis, Achtsioglou urge voters to return for runoff next SundayPM emphasizes reforms in TIF keynote speechMitsotakis says no reshuffle aheadFredi Beleri’s request for release rejected once againErdoğan threatens to ‘part ways’ from EU after critical European Parliament report

This week Washington DC turned its attention to Nagorno Karabakh - or Artsakh - once again, with the Senate Foreign Relations Committee holding a hearing on the failure to break Azerbaijan’s genocidal blockade of Artsakh that has left some 120,000 Armenians on the brink of starvation. Senator Menendez, the chairman of the Committee, was emphatic about the urgency of the situation in Artsakh, stating, “as we sit here today with the lives of so many people hanging in the balance, time is of the essence.” Michael Rubin, a senior fellow at the American Enterprise Institute and former Pentagon official, joins Thanos Davelis to explain how US diplomacy has failed Armenians in Artsakh, and look to the past for analogies that could guide policymakers looking to support the people of Artsakh and end this blockade.Read Michael Rubin’s latest: Anatomy Of Genocide: How The State Department Inadvertently Green-Lighted War On ArmeniansWhat Is the Proper Analogy for Artsakh: Crimea or Kosovo?You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:Senate Hearing: Assessing The Crisis In Nagorno-KarabakhCyprus holds military drill with France, Italy and Greece to bolster security in east MediterraneanUS sanctions 5 Turkish firms in broad Russia action on over 150 targets

For years, the US has had an unshakable, yet unreasonable assumption: that Ankara is a normal ally. Washington has operated from this point of view even in the face of contradictory evidence, and has looked to avoid public disputes while pretending that disagreements are trivial. Instead, as Prof. Henri Barkey argues in Foreign Affairs, the US needs to meet Erdogan’s provocative unpredictability with consistency and firmness. Henri Barkey, the Cohen Professor of International Relations at Lehigh University and Adjunct Senior Fellow for Middle East Studies at the Council on Foreign Relations, joins Thanos Davelis to explain why Washington needs a new approach to dealing with Turkey and President Erdogan, and why now is a unique opportunity to change the relationship dramatically. Read Henri Barkey’s latest in Foreign Affairs: Erdogan the SurvivorYou can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:A billion euros for ThessalyLong-term economic effects of storm emerge as waters recedeUS says it expects Albania to respect due process in Beleri caseBeleri case referred to trial

Days after Storm Daniel passed through Greece, Thessaly - Greece’s agricultural heartland - is still under water, with locals describing apocalyptic scenes. With the plain accounting for 25 percent of Greece’s agricultural production, the threat of shortages and price hikes now looms large. On top of that, with the waters still high, there are now warnings that this could turn into a major health hazard. In the midst of this catastrophe, Greece has announced emergency relief measures and is turning to its EU partners for aid. Nektaria Stamouli, Politico’s Eastern Mediterranean correspondent, joins Thanos Davelis to assess the scope of the damage in Thessaly following Storm Daniel, and look at the questions this latest crisis raises about the challenges that lie ahead for Greece.Read Nektaria Stamouli’s latest here: Supercharged storm wrecks Greece’s breadbasket for years to comeYou can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:Authorities on standby for potential disease outbreakEither we get serious or we will sinkSearchers race to recover bodies in Libyan city where 5,100 died in flooding after 2 dams collapsedLibya Buries Dead in Collective Graves as Estimated Storm Toll Tops 6,000Libya turmoil made Derna flooding even more deadlyDeath toll in Libya’s Derna flooding could reach 20,000: MayorEU chief announces major review saying the bloc should grow to over 30 members

Mastic - a unique product from the Greek island of Chios - has been at the heart of the island’s economy for centuries, linking it - and Greece - to the rest of the world, particularly the Middle East. Mastic found on Chios is used extensively throughout the Middle East, propelling trade and cultural links between Greece and the Arab world for centuries. As Greece takes steps to play a much more central role in bringing together countries in the region, mastic trade and the connections it fosters show us that the foundations for this are already in place. Sean Mathews, an Athens based journalist covering the region, joins Thanos Davelis to look at how mastic trade not only serves as a bridge between Greece and the Middle East, but also reflects the changing fortunes of the region.Read Sean Mathews' latest here: Chios, the Greek island fuelling the Arab world's sweet toothYou can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:EU ready to weigh into Greek recovery effortSpecter of shortages looms in wake of Thessaly floodsG20 summit: Transport project to link India to Middle East, Europe unveiledIndia's economic corridor to Europe via Saudi, UAE: a win for US, West Asia

As the US-Greece partnership reaches new heights, it is also touching on all aspects of both societies, and one of the areas where the US and Greece are working together is to advance the rights of persons with disabilities. This was the focus of US Special Adviser Sara Minkara’s latest trip to Thessaloniki. Sara Minkara, the US Special Advisor on International Disability Rights, and Chrysella Lagaria, the co - founder and CEO of Black Light, a Social Cooperative Enterprise with a mission to improve the daily lives of people with visual impairments and act as a major stakeholder for their work integration, join Thanos Davelis to discuss the importance of advocating for the rights of persons with disabilities, look at the the key challenges Greece still faces, and explore where the two countries can work together to achieve the goal of full inclusion and empowerment.You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:Special Advisor on International Disability Rights Minkara Travel to GreeceRace against time amid destructionGreek PM under attack over handling of Storm Daniel disaster responseThe death toll from floods in Greece has risen to 15 after 4 more bodies foundTurkey 'seriously upset' over Washington linking F-16 sales to Sweden’s NATO membershipSweden's NATO accession and Turkey's bid to buy F-16 jets should be kept separate, Erdogan says

Over the past few years it seems that the island of Imvros, a Turkish island in the Aegean Sea with a historic Greek population, is experiencing what’s been described by some as a small Greek renaissance, as some descendants of the Greeks who were largely displaced in the 1960s have begun trickling back. Elsewhere in Turkey, however, the picture is bleak. Out of a population of some 200,000 Greeks who were allowed to stay following the population exchange between Greece and Turkey in 1923, only some 2,000 remain. Piotr Zalewski, The Economist's Turkey correspondent, joins Thanos Davelis to look at this Greek comeback on Imvros, a small bright spot in an otherwise bleak picture for the remaining Greek community of Turkey.Read Piotr Zalewsky’s latest for The Economist: The uncertain future of Greeks in TurkeyYou can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:PM pledges support for storm-damaged areas in central GreeceGreece credit rating raised to investment grade for first time since debt crisisDBRS restores Greece to investment grade

Greece was battered this week by Storm Daniel, which has led to the death of multiple people, triggered landslides, road and bridge collapses, and is being described as a “biblical catastrophe”. The heavy rainfall, which comes on the heels of a devastating few weeks of wildfires, has turned many villages in the low-lying area of Karditsa, in the mainland Thessaly plain, into a lake. With rescue efforts underway, Prime Minister Mitsotakis postponed an annual economic speech scheduled for this weekend to visit the afflicted areas. Iliana Magra, a journalist with Kathimerini, joins Thanos Davelis with the latest reporting from Greece on this unprecedented storm.You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:‘A biblical catastrophe’: death toll rises to four as Storm Daniel lashes GreeceDeadly storm sweeps across Greece, PM postpones keynote speechEntire villages in Thessaly ‘wiped out’Greece becomes 13th member of Three Seas Initiative on EU’s eastern flankWhat is the Three Seas Initiative and why is it expanding?Romania hosts summit to boost ties between 12 EU countries and partners‘What law dictates that I cannot be sworn in?’

The leaders of Greece, Israel and Cyprus once again put energy cooperation at the heart of discussions earlier this week in Nicosia. The three leaders took it a step further to explore expanding their cooperation, with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu referring to the possibility of an infrastructure and electrical link between Asia, the Arabian Peninsula, Israel, Cyprus, Greece and Europe, and Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis raising the prospect of engaging with India as well. Vassilis Nedos, Kathimerini’s diplomatic and defense editor, joins Thanos Davelis to explore how Greece, Cyprus, and Israel are not only strengthening their partnership, but expanding this arc of stability across the region.You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:Energy cooperation with Israel deepensGreece is working with Israel on AI technology to quickly detect wildfiresDisaster of biblical proportionsThree dead, four missing as rains pound Greece for second dayFlooding in Athens as Storm Daniel reaches capitalTurkey asks the EU to take bold steps to advance its membership bid, while the EU urges reformsTurkey, EU to revive talks to modernise customs union, minister says

Greece’s foreign minister held a much anticipated meeting with his Turkish counterpart on Tuesday in which the two sides agreed on a “roadmap” to revive high-level contacts between their countries and seek “new approaches” to problems as part of an effort to improve ties. Constantinos Filis, the Director of the Institute of Global Affairs and an associate professor of international relations at the American College of Greece, joins Thanos Davelis with the latest takeaways from this meeting in Ankara, and offers a look ahead at what will likely be a crucial period in Greek-Turkish relations.You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:Small window of opportunity opens in Greek-Turkish relationsMinisterial meeting heralds warmer relations between Greece and TurkeyFriendly Putin-Erdogan Meeting Keeps West GuessingTorrential rain follows summer wildfires in Greece, one deadGreece battered by tropical storms

In July Greece’s Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis said he planned to legalize same-sex marriage in his new term. Many have noted that this would be a huge step forward for LGBTQI+ rights at a time when some governments - even in the West - are cracking down on the community. Jessica Stern, the US Special Envoy to Advance the Human Rights of LGBTQI+ Persons, and Nikos Efstathiou, a journalist and author from Athens and the current Managing Editor at the magazine LiFO, join Thanos Davelis to talk about the LGBTQI+ rights in Greece and around the world, and look at what Greece and the US can learn from each other as they work to advance these rights.Appointed by President Biden, Jessica Stern serves as the Special Envoy to Advance the Human Rights of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer and Intersex (LGBTQI+) Persons. Special Envoy Stern leads U.S. efforts to protect LGBTQI+ persons globally from violence and discrimination. Prior to joining the Department of State, Stern led Outright International, a global LGBTQI+ human rights organization, as its Executive Director for ten years.You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:U.S. Special Envoy to Advance the Human Rights of LGBTQI+ Persons Stern’s Travel to Greece and GermanyGreece's Prime Minister Plans to Legalize Same-Sex MarriageGreece wildfires: Eighteen bodies found in Greek forestWildfires: EU mobilises new planes and firefighters for GreeceUN calls unauthorized construction by Turkish Cypriots a violation of the status quo on CyprusTurkey accuses UN of abandoning neutrality over Cyprus roadwork

As heatwaves – like the ones Greece has experienced this summer – become longer and more intense, modern cities like Athens need to develop new strategies in order to shield the city and its inhabitants from rising temperatures. This includes investing in public water reservoirs and drinking fountains, splash pads and fountains, pocket parks, green parking lots, trees in public spaces, sustainable mobility and reused buildings. Taking these tough, but necessary decisions, however will require political will. Prof. Petros Babasikas, head of the architecture program at the University of Toronto who has also led a key research on how Athens can adapt in the age of climate change, joins Thanos Davelis to look at what steps Athens can take today to become more resilient.Read Prof. Petros Babasikas’ latest interview with Kathimerini: Climate change: Saving Athens from itselfYou can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:Turkish Cypriots attack UN peacekeepers trying to halt road work inside divided Cyprus’ buffer zoneUN condemns assault on personnel and vehicles inside Cyprus buffer zoneUS Embassy of Cyprus tweet on the attack in the buffer zonePutin fails again as Europe’s gas storage hits 90 percent

In the months since Turkish President Erdogan’s reelection, we’ve heard a lot about the potential for a new page in EU-Turkey relations, and Erdogan even raised the issue of Turkey’s membership in the EU at the July NATO summit. Despite this signaling from Ankara, the main obstacles concerning EU-Turkey relations have remained the same, whether we are looking at rule of law and human rights issues, or Turkey’s continued occupation and refusal to recognize the Republic of Cyprus. As the debate over the future of EU-Turkey relations in the coming years unfolds, Ambassador Marc Pierini joins Thanos Davelis to look at what we should expect in the wake of Erdogan’s reelection.Marc Pierini is a visiting scholar at Carnegie Europe, where his research focuses on developments in the Middle East and Turkey from a European perspective. Prior to this, Pierini was a career EU diplomat, and served as EU ambassador to Turkey (2006–2011).You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:What does Erdoğan’s new term in office mean for EU-Turkey relations?UN raises alarm over unauthorized construction in buffer zoneNorth announces intention to build ‘unauthorised’ road through buffer zoneLess leeway for handouts this winter

Greek football - or soccer - teams have delivered some important performances on the European stage these past weeks, and fans are rightfully excited across the country. While fans celebrate these victories, a cloud hangs over the sport. Fan violence is back in the spotlight after a Greek fan was killed recently in an altercation with Croatian hooligans in Athens. The incident has sparked a debate about violence in the game and the government’s responsibilities, and UEFA President Aleksander Ceferin met with Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis on Wednesday to address what he called “the cancer of football”. Professor Alexander Kitroeff, a Professor of History at Haverford College and the author of the book Ελλάς, Ευρώπη Παναθηναϊκός! 100 Χρόνια Ελληνική Ιστορία - Greece, Europe, Panathinaikos! 100 Years of Greek History, joins Thanos Davelis to discuss these latest developments.You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:UEFA and Greece to clamp down on football hooligans after fan's death in AthensUEFA’s Ceferin calls on Europe to end ‘cancer’ of soccer violencePM announces soccer club club fan associations will closeNagorno-Karabakh residents say 'disastrous' blockade choking suppliesMount an airlift to feed Nagorno-KarabakhRussia risks war with NATO in Black Sea, former top commander in Europe warns

The UN Security Council scheduled an emergency meeting on Wednesday to discuss the worsening humanitarian situation in Nagorno-Karabakh, or Artsakh, as a result of Azerbaijan’s blockade of the Lachin corridor. For over eight months, the region's 120,000 indigenous Armenians have been deprived access to food, medicine, fuel, electricity, and water. Gev Iskajyan, the Executive Director of the Armenian National Committee of Artsakh, joins Thanos Davelis from Artsakh to look at the humanitarian crisis that’s unfolding on the ground as a result of Azerbaijan’s blockade, and discuss his latest op-ed which explores how US diplomacy is currently failing the people of Artsakh and Armenia. Read Gev Iskajyan and Alex Galitsky’s latest op-ed: U.S. Diplomacy is Failing ArmeniaYou can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:Weapons infrastructure upgrade urgentMigrant and refugee border crossings down 29%

Every year on July 20th we remember the beginning of Turkey’s invasion of Cyprus. July 20th, however, only marks phase one of the Turkish invasion. On August 14th, 1974 - despite the collapse of the dictatorship in Greece, the restoration of a democratic government in Cyprus, and the diplomatic efforts underway to find a way forward - Turkey launched phase two of its invasion, or Attila II. Historian Andrew Novo joins Thanos Davelis to discuss the second phase of Turkey’s invasion of Cyprus that led to the illegal occupation of nearly 40% of Cyprus, a score of human rights violations, and the displacement of some 150,000 people from their homes.Andrew Novo holds a doctorate in history from the University of Oxford. He is Professor of Strategic Studies at the National Defense University's College of International Security Affairs, and he is a specialist in the history of the Mediterranean world, both ancient and modern. The views expressed on our show do not reflect the National Defense University, the Department of Defense or the United States government.You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:Cyprus marks 49 years since Turkey's dramatic military expansionHimare’s ethnic Greeks rally for detained mayorThe benefits of a debt upgrade

After several years of virtually nonexistent relations, Greek Foreign Minister Giorgos Gerapetritis spoke on the phone Wednesday with Najla Mangoush - the interim foreign minister of the government of national unity in Tripoli. According to diplomatic sources, Gerapetritis stressed the need to relaunch relations between Athens and Tripoli and to open direct channels of communication. Athens’ willingness to restart relations comes at a time when Ankara is also taking steps toward rapprochement with countries in the region - like Egypt - and with actors in eastern Libya. Expert Aya Burweila joins Thanos Davelis to look at these latest developments and break down what they mean for Libya and the region. Aya Burweila is a Libyan expert from Benghazi based in Athens, is the founder and director of the non-profit Code on the Road, and a BBC Woman Expert in Terrorism and Radicalization.You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:Athens seeking restart with TripoliNewly reconciled, Turkey and Egypt could be a force for stability in AfricaFuneral held for fan killed in Athens attack. UEFA President Ceferin to meet Greek PMPatriarchate gets green light, in writing, for liturgy at Panagia Soumela

This year marks the centenary of the Lausanne Treaty, a treaty that has survived a number of twists and turns in world history. While it continues to largely define the status quo between Greece and Turkey, the spirit of the treaty has also been interpreted differently in both countries, with Greeks seeing the treaty as a painful, but necessary basis for peace, while for Turks the spirit of Lausanne is summed up in a single word – sovereignty. Bruce Clark, a contributor to The Economist and the author of Twice A Stranger: How Mass Expulsion Forged Modern Greece and Turkey and Athens, City of Wisdom, joins Thanos Davelis to look at what the Treaty of Lausanne has meant on either side of the Aegean, explaining that while this difference in views may pose risks, a world without Lausanne would be much more dangerous.Read Bruce Clark’s latest piece in Kathimerini: Survival and ambivalence: The story of LausanneYou can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:Russian consular services in occupied areas stirs debateTASS: Russia to provide consular services in occupied CyprusTurkey inflation: Erdogan's policy U-turn tests patience

Congressman Pete Sessions recently visited the Turkish occupied part of Cyprus, becoming the first American politician to fly directly into ​​the unrecognized Turkish proxy state - against State Department advice - on a junket sponsored by the Turkish Cypriot Chamber of Commerce. The visit was condemned by the Republic of Cyprus as well, which denounced it as a violation of international law and a departure from Washington’s official stance. Michael Rubin, a senior fellow at the American Enterprise Institute and former Pentagon official, joins Thanos Davelis to explain how Congressman Sessions’ stunt was not only deeply irresponsible, but does nothing to advance diplomacy, and is manna for expansionist dictators everywhere.Read Michael Rubin’s latest: Pete Sessions’s occupied Cyprus junket bolsters dictators, undermines peaceYou can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:Gerapetritis: ‘Sovereignty not up for discussion’Cyprus making progress with US visa waivers

It’s now been almost a year and a half since Russia invaded Ukraine, and the impact of Putin’s war can be felt from the geopolitical landscape to the global economy. A point of particular concern has been energy, as Europe has had to find ways to cut its reliance on Russian gas and oil. Georgia Nakou, a features editor at MacroPolis, a specialist website focused on political and economic analysis of Greek affairs, joins Thanos Davelis to look at how Greece's energy policy has been affected by Putin’s invasion of Ukraine and the subsequent EU sanctions on Russia, and explore what this means as Greece’s government looks to maintain an ambitious energy and climate policy.Read Georgia Nakou’s analysis for the Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung foundation: Energy Without RussiaYou can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:Defenseless against horde of hooligansFan killed in Greece during clashes between rival supportersUEFA postpones AEK Athens-Dinamo Zagreb match after fan killed in brawlGreek inflation strikes back

It’s been a busy month in Washington, and Hellenic issues weren’t left out of the legislative agenda as Congresswoman Grace Meng and the Hellenic Caucus introduced an amendment to the National Defense Authorization Act that once again puts the US-Greece relationship in the spotlight. A part of the amendment that has gotten a lot of media attention - with some headlines misquoting the bill - calls for a report assessing the potential for additional bases or an expanded US military presence in Greece. Endy Zemenides, the Executive Director of the Hellenic American Leadership Council, joins Thanos Davelis to cut through the headlines and break down what Congress is really calling for with this NDAA amendment that’s once again showing Congress’s commitment to take the US-Greece partnership to new heights.Read Endy Zemenides’ latest article in Kathimerini here: Beyond the hyperbolic headlinesYou can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:Justice minister praises handling of Limassol fire, hopes for a ‘better day’Extreme weather conditions: EU sends assistance to Slovenia and CyprusGreece sends two Canadair fire fighting aircraft to help Cyprus fight a forest fireGreece, Israel boost defense industry links

Following a decade-plus of fractured relations with key Western partners, including the US, Turkey’s President Erdogan has made some moves to seemingly rebuild these relationships. His decision on Sweden’s NATO membership at the summit in Vilnius and the toning down of his aggressive posturing in the Aegean against Greece are but a few examples. Despite this, many in NATO, as well as officials in the US government, openly question Erdogan’s commitment to the West. Expert Sinan Ciddi joins Thanos Davelis to break down that while some of these moves by Erdogan’s may appear promising - for now - we should abandon the notion that Erdogan’s Turkey will anchor itself with the West.Sinan Ciddi is a non-resident senior fellow at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies (FDD), where he contributes to FDD’s Turkey Program and Center on Military and Political Power (CMPP). He is also an Associate Professor of Security Studies at the Command and Staff College-Marine Corps University and Georgetown University’s School of Foreign Service.Read Sinan Ciddi’s latest piece here: Chasing The Mirage Of Turkey’s Western OrientationYou can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:Cyprus condemns US congressman’s visit to Turkish-occupied Cyprus as a violation of international lawGreece is limiting Acropolis visitors from September

A new movement is underway in Greece, and is taking place on its beaches in the middle of the tourist season. Citizens on a number of popular islands have been mobilizing to reclaim their beaches from private businesses, a number of which have illegally covered the seafront with umbrellas and sunbeds. These demonstrations are already starting to have an impact, with the so-called “beach towel movement” not only raising questions about the sustainability of the current tourism model in Greece, but also taking on a political dimension. Nick Malkoutzis, the co-founder and editor of Macropolis.gr, a political and economic analysis site that focuses on Greece, joins Thanos Davelis to discuss the “beach towel movement” and its broader impact. You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:Government cracks down on sun lounger sprawl as public mood towards tourism soursThe spread of rented lounge chairs on Greece’s beaches brings a pledge to increase inspectionsPM announces high-level cooperation council with EgyptTurkey fumes as Disney axes founding father series after Armenian outcryTurkey investigates reported cancellation of Disney Plus series on Ataturk

This week Albanian authorities finally moved to refer Fredi Beleri’s case to trial. The ethnic Greek elected mayor of Himare has been in pre-trial detention for months, and as a result has been unable to take the oath of office. His case has now become central to Greek-Albanian relations, with implications for other issues in the relationship - from efforts to resolve maritime disputes at the ICJ to the broader rights of the Greek minority. It is also impacting Albania’s path to EU membership, and respecting Beleri’s right to a fair trial is crucial if Tirana hopes to make progress on this front. Vassilis Nedos, Kathimerini’s diplomatic and defense editor, joins Thanos Davelis to look at how this case is testing Greek-Albanian relations, and look at why it matters if Albania hopes to move its EU membership bid forward.You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:Athens: Tirana violating Beleri’s right to fair trialGreece offers free holiday to tourists who fled Rhodes firesGreece offers free vacation on Rhodes to tourists affected by wildfiresUS Representative Grace Meng applauds inclusion of amendment supporting Greece in defense policy billTenth upgraded F-16 Viper jet delivered to Greece

On March 11, 2023, the night before municipal elections in Albania, the then candidate for mayor of Himare, the ethnic Greek Fredi Beleri, and his aide, Pantelis Kokavesis, were arrested by the police for allegedly attempting to buy votes. Months later, and while he has already been elected mayor, Beleri remains in pre-trial detention. Greece has monitored this case closely, stressing to Albania that, as a candidate for EU membership it must strictly respect Beleri’s right to a fair trial. This was even brought up during a recent meeting between Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis and his Albanian counterpart Edi Rama on the sidelines of the NATO summit in Vilnius. Yiannis Souliotis, a journalist with Kathimerini who spoke with Fredi Beleri from prison, joins Thanos Davelis to discuss his exclusive interview with the imprisoned mayor of Himare and look at the latest developments in his case.Read Yannis Souliotis’ interview with the imprisoned ethnic Greek mayor-elect of Himare: ‘For us, freedom is not self-evident’You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:Greece’s government is planning tougher penalties for arson following a spate of wildfiresEthnic Albanian party in North Macedonia offers deal to clear the way to join EU

Climate change is exacerbating weather extremes, making heat waves more frequent and more severe worldwide, and this summer has been the hottest on record. Heat waves are also causing yet another devastating wildfire season, and with data showing that the Eastern Mediterranean is warming twice as fast as the rest of the world, this is a particularly acute problem for countries like Greece. Professor Costas Synolakis joins Thanos Davelis to break down his latest op-ed in Kathimerini that explores how Greece is handling this double whammy of heat waves and wildfires. Costas Synolakis is a professor at the University of Southern California and a member of the Academy of Athens and the US National Academy of Engineering. In 2019 he was elected Chairman of the newly established Special Scientific Committee on Climate Change in Greece.Read Costas Synolakis’ latest piece in Kathimerini: Heatwaves and wildfires: How Greece is handling the double whammyYou can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:First investment grade decisionGreece and Cyprus reaffirm commitment to pursue peace settlement for Mediterranean islandGreece and Cyprus welcome EU bid to re-engage with Turkey, but urge caution

It’s now been a couple of weeks since the NATO summit in Vilnius, where Turkey’s Erdogan was praised by other leaders - including President Biden - for lifting his objections to Sweden’s NATO membership bid. Once again, F-16 sales to Turkey were a top-of-the-agenda item ahead of Vilnius. Since the summit, while there have been countless headlines declaring “deals” and discussing details of alleged deals, Sweden is still not a member of NATO and the administration has not secured the clearance of congressional holds for an F-16 sale to Turkey. Endy Zemenides, the Executive Director of the Hellenic American Leadership Council, joins Thanos Davelis to review what we know post-Vilnius, and cut through all the noisy diplomacy.Read Endy Zemenides’ latest piece in Kathimerini: Cutting through noisy diplomacyYou can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:US Senator Menendez says he has not changed opposition to Turkey F-16 saleUS Senator calls for assurances for Greece, Cyprus in any upgrade of Turkish F-16sGreek and Turkish Cypriot leaders in joint appeal for information on missingGreek wildfires die down after burning for nearly two weeks

Earlier this week Greece celebrated 49 years since the restoration of democracy after seven years of military dictatorship. With the return of democracy, Greece began a new period of stability, one anchored in the West. This was evident a few years later when Greece joined the European Union. Since then, Greece has proven its democratic resilience time and again, especially in the midst of the decade-long financial crisis in the previous decade. Harris Mylonas, an associate professor of political science and international affairs at the George Washington Elliott School of International Affairs and the producer of the groundbreaking documentary about Andreas Papandreou and PASOK, “Searching for Andreas: Political Leadership in Times of Crisis”, joins Thanos Davelis to look at this historic moment and explore its legacy today.You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:The Day Democracy Was Restored in Greece After the JuntaWildfire in Greece triggers explosions at an ammunition depot and the relocation of fighter jetsUS Senator Menendez says he has not changed opposition to Turkey F-16 saleUS Senator calls for assurances for Greece, Cyprus in any upgrade of Turkish F-16s

Following the meeting between Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis and Turkish President Erdogan at the NATO summit, we’ve heard Mitsotakis talk of a new “bold agenda” in Greek-Turkish relations. As the Greek prime minister laid out, this agenda could include going to the International Court of Justice at the Hague to resolve the key disputes in the Aegean. Expert Constantinos Filis, the Director of the Institute of Global Affairs and an associate professor of international relations at the American College of Greece, joins Thanos Davelis to discuss his latest piece in Kathimerini in which he makes the case that going to the Hague is Greece’s best option.Read Constaninos Filis’ latest in Kathimerini here: Why the International Court is our best optionYou can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:Greece sees some wildfire respite, though stubborn blazes rage onEU migration deal faces delays after talks snagWatchdog investigates EU border agency’s role after Greece boat disaster

As Greece faces a prolonged heatwave and battles wildfires across the country, the realities of rising temperatures and climate change have long been evident and are impacting every aspect of life. Steven Tagle joins Thanos Davelis to look at how climate change is impacting local communities in Greece, specifically the mastic producers on the Aegean island of Chios, who have been battered by high temperatures, unseasonable rains, and past wildfires, and break down how are they innovating to better prepare and cope for the impacts of climate change.Steven Tagle is a fellow from the Institute of Current World Affairs funded by the Stavros Niarchos Foundation. He previously served as speechwriter for the US Embassy in Athens and as a Fulbright Fellow in Greece. Read Steven Tagles piece here: Mastic producers in Greece innovate as climate change threatens harvestYou can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:Local communities confront the new reality of climate changePlane fighting wildfires in Greece crashes with two aboardThree days of mourning for pilots killed fighting fires in EviaTurkish authorities give permission for service at Sumela Monastery

Wildfires have continued to rage across Greece, with Prime Minister Mitsotakis saying on Monday that the country is “fighting a war” against the fires. Greece’s fire service capabilities have been stretched as new fires emerge amid a sweltering heatwave. In Rhodes, where a wildfire has cut across the island, the government and locals have mounted the largest ever island evacuation to move close to 19,000 people to safety. Evacuations have also taken place on Corfu and in other locations. Eleni Varvitsioti, the Financial Times correspondent for Greece and Cyprus based in Athens, joins Thanos Davelis with the latest update on the wildfires burning across Greece and the ongoing efforts to not only extinguish the flames, but rescue people in harm's way.Read Eleni Varvitsioti’s latest reports in the Financial Times:Repatriation flights begin for tourists stranded on RhodesGreece mounts mass evacuation from wildfire-hit RhodesScorching Europe struggles to adapt to near-record temperaturesYou can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:Rhodes: ‘The Greek people and volunteers have been amazing’Rhodes blaze cannot be containedMenendez introduces favorable amendment for arms sales to CyprusErdogan makes talks difficult

This month Turkey’s President Erdogan finally ended his opposition to Sweden’s NATO membership bid after months of brinkmanship and threats, while this week saw him travel to the oil-rich Gulf in a bid to attract investment and bolster his country’s ailing economy. Prof. Henri Barkey, the Cohen Professor of International Relations at Lehigh University and Adjunct Senior Fellow for Middle East Studies at the Council on Foreign Relations, joins Thanos Davelis to break down how Erdogan’s real problem, and the reason behind his decision on Sweden’s NATO membership and his engagement with the Gulf, is the enormous economic challenge that Turkey is facing - much of it his own doing.Read Henri Barkey’s latest here: Calling Erdogan’s bluff on NATOYou can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:Saudi Arabia buys Turkish drones during Erdogan’s visitUAE and Turkey sign multibillion-dollar agreementsGreece faces hottest July weekend in 50 years, forecaster says, as scores of wildfires rageWildfires in Greece burn for fifth day as another heatwave hitsTurkey to send three firefighting aircraft to GreeceThe EU has revealed its blueprint to curb migration

Firefighting aircraft and ground crews from other countries headed to Greece on Thursday to help battle wildfires that have intensified as southern Europe faces a prolonged heat wave. While firefighters have contained some of the wildfires near Athens, officials are on alert, warning that “the worst is yet to come,” as Southern Europe’s second heat wave in as many weeks brings extreme temperatures to Mediterranean countries. Derek Gatopoulos, a correspondent for the Associated Press who has been covering news in Greece for more than 25 years, joins Thanos Davelis with the latest updates on the wildfires, and to look at how Greece and Athens are coping with the intense heat wave.You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:Wildfires in Greece largely contained, new heatwave loomsHeatwaves to persist to month’s endGrid is seen holding, for nowUAE and Turkey sign multibillion-dollar agreementsSaudi Arabia buys Turkish drones during Erdogan’s visit

July 20th marks another black anniversary of Turkey’s invasion of Cyprus in 1974. 49 years later, the northern part of Cyprus remains illegally occupied. President Christodoulides recently expressed cautious optimism about efforts to resume talks, however, and Turkey’s desire to re-engage with the EU - as President Erdogan suggested at the NATO summit - puts the focus back on Cyprus. Endy Zemenides, the Executive Director of the Hellenic American Leadership Council, joins Thanos Davelis to break down whether there is space for reunification talks to be revived and what role the UN, EU and the US can play.You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:President exudes ''cautious optimism'' for Cyprus problem resolutionSecurity Council Press Statement on CyprusCyprus seeks to revive peace talks with Turkey over divided islandOfficial warns the worst is yet to comeNexans wins EuroAsia Interconnector contract

On Monday Russia pulled out of an agreement that had allowed Ukraine to export its grain by sea despite a wartime blockade, a deal seen as essential to keeping food flowing from Ukraine — a major breadbasket — to the wider world. Expert Max Bergmann joins Thanos Davelis to break down why Russia has decided to terminate this agreement, what’s at stake if the deal isn’t renewed, and whether Ukraine, Europe, and the US have a plan B ready. We also explore what efforts are in the works to deepen the West’s engagement with Ukraine - primarily on the NATO and EU level.Max Bergman is the director of the Center in Euro-Atlantic and Northern European Studies and the Europe, Russia, and Eurasia Program, both at the Center for Strategic and International Studies, and a former senior advisor in the U.S. State Department.Read Max Bergman’s latest here: The EU Isn’t Ready for Ukraine to JoinYou can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:Russia killed off the Black Sea grain deal. What happens now?Russia pulls out of the Black Sea grain dealWildfires in Greece close highways and threaten an oil refinery, as the EU sends firefighting planesSettlements evacuated as wildfires spreadPresident exudes ''cautious optimism'' for Cyprus problem resolution

Last week, a day after meeting with Turkish President Erdogan at the NATO summit, Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis announced the promotion of a “bold agenda” in Greek-Turkish relations with the ultimate aim of bringing the issue of the delimitation of the continental shelf and the exclusive economic zone (EEZ) to the International Court of Justice in The Hague. Vassilis Nedos, Kathimerini’s diplomatic and defense editor, joins Thanos Davelis to discuss this new agenda in Greek-Turkish relations, look at the difficult road leading to the Hague, and more. Read Vassilis Nedos’ latest here: The difficult road leading to The Hague‘Let’s face the future challenges squarely’You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:Wildfires rage near Greek capital, houses damaged1,200 children evacuated from summer camp as blaze nearsAfter heat wave, wildfires force thousands to flee seaside resorts outside Greek capitalGreece to begin selling bank stakes this autumn-sources

President Erdogan’s recent “U-turn” on Sweden’s accession to NATO has led to a number of observers wondering whether Turkey may be pivoting away from Russia and returning to the West, with some asking how long Erdogan’s special relationship with Putin can last. Amberin Zaman, a senior correspondent reporting from the Middle East, North Africa and Europe exclusively for Al-Monitor, joins Thanos Davelis to break down why none of Erdogan’s latest moves amount to a pivot away from Russia any more than they signal a real reset with the West. Instead, this is simply Erdogan navigating Ankara’s relationships in ways that he believes best benefit Turkey’s interests and above all his own political survival.Read Amberin Zaman’s latest piece in Al Monitor here: Erdogan’s NATO moves agitate Russia but don’t spell Turkey's sharp shift to WestYou can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:Russia’s war might have a new casualty: The Putin-Erdogan bondTurkey’s Double Dealing in the Ukraine WarTourism enjoys total recoveryBold agenda for Greek-Turkish relations

NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg announced that a deal had been reached with Turkey’s President Erdogan in order to lift his veto on Sweden’s NATO accession. While the announcement was followed by celebrations, Sweden still needs Turkey’s parliament to approve its membership - which could take months. It looks like Turkey also now anticipates the lifting of most defense-related sanctions, and expects Europe to move on its EU accession process. Michael Rubin, a senior fellow at the American Enterprise Institute and former Pentagon official, joins Thanos Davelis to look into the details of this deal, and break down why Erdogan walking away from this high-stakes poker game with new concessions is problematic.Read Michael Rubin’s latest here:The Turkey-NATO Deal On Sweden Is A DisasterSweden SurrendersThe Turkey-Iran terror nexus in occupied Cyprus shakes the status quoYou can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:Security Council Press Statement on CyprusNicosia welcomes UN security council support for new envoyPM raises ethnic Greek mayor’s arrest with Rama‘For us, freedom is not self-evident’

Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis and Turkish President Erdogan agreed to resume talks and confidence-building measures as they hailed a new “positive climate” following their meeting on the sidelines of the NATO summit in Vilnius. Despite the latest announcements and the recent shift in tone from Ankara, fundamental differences remain. Professor Kostas Ifantis joins Thanos Davelis to discuss the main takeaways from the Mitsotakis-Erdogan meeting as the two leaders agreed to repair ties while maintaining “calm waters” in the Aegean, explore what this effort could look like in the coming months, and break down the role Washington should play in this reset attempt.Kostas Ifantis is a Professor of International Relations at the Department of International, European and Area Studies at Panteion University of Athens, and has previously served as Director for Research at the Policy Planning Center of the Greek Ministry of Foreign Affairs.You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:Summit agreement for restart with TurkeyMitsotakis, Erdogan hail ‘positive climate’ in Greece-Turkey tiesRestart attempt with Turkey via USAchtsioglou announces candidacy for SYRIZA leadershipFormer SYRIZA finance minister set to announce leadership bidErdogan’s government to discuss Sweden’s NATO ratification with nationalist ally, official says

Greece is currently bracing for its first major and prolonged heatwave of the summer, with temperatures over the next few days expected to reach and exceed 40 degrees Celsius. The country’s health, labor and citizens’ protection ministries issued emergency warnings on Monday to citizens, while the City of Athens is also taking action to deal with the phenomenon. Elissavet Bargianni, the Head of the Resilience and Sustainability Department of the City of Athens and its Chief Heat Officer, joins Thanos Davelis to explore the dangers rising temperatures and climate change pose for cities like Athens, break down how the city is building resilience and finding solutions to make sure it can meet these challenges in the decades to come, and look at the steps Athens is taking ahead of this new heatwave.You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:City of Athens climate action planGreece bracing for impact of heatwave KleonGuidelines for beating the heatItaly heatwave could push temperatures close to European recordUS to move ahead with transfer of F-16 jets to TurkeyRestart attempt with Turkey via US

On the eve of the NATO summit in Vilnius it appears that Turkish President Erdogan is once again moving the goalposts when it comes to Sweden’s NATO membership bid, attempting to put progress on Turkey’s EU membership on the table as well. At the same time, President Biden and Erdogan also discussed the potential sale of US F-16 fighter jets to Turkey, and with Ankara introducing new demands at the 11th hour, the link between Sweden’s NATO accession and the issue of F-16s is under the spotlight as well. Steven Cook, the Eni Enrico Mattei Senior Fellow for Middle East and Africa Studies at the Council on Foreign Relations, joins Thanos Davelis to look ahead at what is likely to be a dramatic NATO summit.You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:Sweden still not ready for NATO, Erdoğan tells BidenUS could agree to sell Turkey F-16 jets so it will allow Sweden to join NatoUS, Turkey edge closer to deal on Sweden’s NATO membership; bargaining over F-16sAs NATO Gathers, Unity Among the Alliance Has Become Harder to SustainMitsotakis, Erdogan hoping for a resetErdogan’s difficult equation in NATOTemperatures set to climbItaly heatwave could push temperatures close to European record

With the NATO Summit at Vilnius around the corner, everyone’s attention is on Turkey and whether it will lift its veto over Sweden’s NATO membership bid. This is also putting the focus on Turkey’s request to purchase F-16 jets from the US. Endy Zemenides, HALC’s Executive Director, joins Thanos Davelis to break down how NATO allies have given Turkey too much leverage when it comes to Sweden’s membership bid and look at the latest developments on the proposed sale of F-16s to Turkey. We also look at how Greece’s elections have led to a shakeup in Greece’s representation in the US and what this means for US-Greece relations, while assessing if there is any new momentum on the Cyprus issue.You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:NATO’s Welcome Party for Sweden Is Back on IceSwedish NATO membership: No deal with Turkey, leaders meet next weekGreece pledges more high defense spending, seeks F-35 fleetNATO allies to spend ‘at least 2%’ of GDP on defense, diplomats sayFDI in Greece at record levels

This week Prime Minister Mitsotakis presented his new government’s vision for Greece over the next few years, pledging to step up the pace of reforms in order to take Greece to the next level. Some of the key steps he outlined include debt reduction, bringing incomes for Greeks significantly closer to European levels, promising to crack down on tax evasion and to reform the country's health sector, and committing to legalize same-sex marriage. At the same time, Mitsotakis has stated that he is looking to build a new consensus in the center ground of Greek politics. Nikos Efstathiou, a journalist and author in Greece and the deputy editor in chief at the weekly magazine LiFO, joins Thanos Davelis to look at Prime Minister Mitsotakis’ ambitious agenda as his second term kicks off. You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:PM vows to take Greece to next levelGreece's re-elected PM outlines government goals up to 2027Mitsotakis Steps Up Reforms to Send Greek Crisis to HistorySame-Sex Marriage Is Part of Reelected Greek PM’s LGBTQ Plan‘Strategic’ relations highlighted at US Independence Day eventGreece welcomes deescalation in the eastern Mediterranean without directly referring to Turkey