Minister of Foreign Affairs Nikos Dendias’ speech before Government Officials of San Marino in Palazzo Pubblico (San Marino, 16.01.2023)

Most Excellent Captains Regents of the Most Serene Republic of San Marino;
Your Excellency Minister Beccari,

It is with great honour that I received the rank of "Cavaliere di Gran Croce dell' Ordine Equestre di Sant'Agata". It is a great pleasure to be here today, on the first official visit of a Greek Foreign Minister to San Marino. A country very close to Greece not only geographically but, most importantly, in terms of our shared values: democracy, equality, freedom, respect for human rights and rule of law, generally speaking, a rules-based international system; All these are values that shape our European identity and guide our foreign policy.

It is indeed an honour to visit the country, representing the motherland of democracy. I also feel personally attached to San Marino, since I come from the island of Corfu. I believe that the phrase "most noble Ionian Sister", with which Greece has defined San Marino, best reflects the feeling of closeness between our nations. And I do believe that this is the way San Marino defines Greece.

Today's fruitful discussions testify to the excellent level of our bilateral relations; as well as, of course, to our mutual will to further enhance our cooperation. The Memorandum of Understanding for Political Consultations provides the framework for a systematic exchange on issues of common interest. The bilateral Agreement on Tourism offers ample opportunities for cooperation in a field with economic importance for both our countries.

Our bilateral cooperation in international fora is exemplary. As it is our commitment to facing unprecedented challenges. The Russian invasion in Ukraine is a reminder that revisionist agendas can lead to destabilisation and armed conflict. It is unacceptable that some countries opt for use or threat of use of force, instead of peaceful resolution of disputes, and the respect of international law. We condemn, in the strongest possible terms, all forms of aggression, use or threat of use of force, and rhetoric attacks by any country.

Excellencies,

The cornerstone of the Greek foreign policy is respect for international law and the fundamental principles of the UN Charter. Being the oldest NATO and EU member-state in the Eastern Mediterranean, my country bears, we feel, a special responsibility: to promote stability and prosperity in our neighbourhood and in Europe. Situated in an area surrounded by crises, Greece has managed to become a beacon of stability. We have developed solid cooperation formats with like-minded partners who share our vision for principle-based international relations.

And I would like to be deeply thankful and grateful for your support in our bid to be elected as a non-permanent member of the UN Security Council (2025-2026).

We are also looking forward to enhancing synergies in the framework of the Euro-Mediterranean cooperation. Europe and the Mediterranean Sea are our common home. Greece unequivocally supports the swift conclusion of the Association Agreement between San Marino and the EU.

Excellencies,

I would like to deeply thank you for your kind hospitality. I am convinced that we can give a new dynamic to our relations to the benefit of our people. I believe my visit today is a small step towards that direction. I have extended an invitation to His Excellency Minister Luca Beccari to visit Greece and I am looking forward to hosting him in Athens the soonest possible.

Thank you so much.

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