German foreign minister visits Greece for talks on defence, EU enlargement

German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul arrived in Greece on May 4 for high-level talks expected to focus on strengthening defence cooperation, expanding economic ties, and advancing European Union enlargement.

During his visit to Athens, Wadephul is scheduled to meet Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis and Foreign Minister Giorgos Gerapetritis, Caliber.Az reports per foreign media. 

Discussions are also expected to address maritime security in the Strait of Hormuz, particularly in the context of a lasting ceasefire in the ongoing conflict involving Iran. Greece, which operates one of the world’s largest merchant fleets, has been significantly affected by disruptions in the vital shipping route.

Ahead of the trip, Wadephul described Greece as a “strategic anchor” in southeastern Europe, highlighting closer alignment between Germany and Greece amid shifting global dynamics. He emphasised plans to deepen defence cooperation, including joint procurement initiatives and increased use of European funding mechanisms.

Greece has been modernising its armed forces and maintains close defence ties with France, the United States, and Israel. In a recent development, Mitsotakis and French President Emmanuel Macron agreed to extend a bilateral strategic cooperation pact, originally signed in 2021, for another five years. The agreement includes a French security guarantee for Greece.

As part of his one-day visit, Wadephul is also expected to tour the Skaramangas Shipyard, the largest shipyard in the eastern Mediterranean. German firm ThyssenKrupp Marine Systems recently reached a deal with the facility to modernise four submarines.

EU enlargement is also on the agenda, with six Western Balkan countries and Ukraine seeking membership. Wadephul said candidate countries must be offered “credible prospects” for accession, noting that Greece would play a key role when it assumes the rotating EU Council presidency in the second half of 2027.

By Sabina Mammadli