London, United Kingdom. Greek Defence Minister Nikos Dendias and his British counterpart John Healey discussed Cyprus and regional security issues during talks in London amid rising geopolitical tensions.
Cyprus and regional security
According to statements by Dendias, he underlined Greece’s increased interest in the security of the Republic of Cyprus, as well as the corresponding interest of the United Kingdom. He briefed Healey on Athens’ security initiatives related to Cyprus and Greece’s obligations to the European Union and Nato, including cooperation with Bulgaria.
Discussions focused on the importance of Greek-British cooperation in addressing modern geopolitical challenges, particularly developments in the eastern Mediterranean linked to the war in Iran. Dendias said the meeting took place during heightened global instability, which he described as among the most critical periods since World War II.
Bilateral defence cooperation and innovation
The two sides also discussed bilateral defence cooperation, with emphasis on innovation and new technologies. Efforts are under way to bring the Greek and British defence innovation ecosystems closer together, with the Hellenic Centre for Defence Innovation expected to play a key role.
Maritime routes and continued coordination
Both ministers stressed the importance of safeguarding maritime routes, with Greece highlighting its role as a leading maritime power and placing particular emphasis on maintaining freedom of navigation, a position also shared by the UK. The two agreed to remain in close contact to coordinate responses to evolving challenges.
Topics raised and Strait of Hormuz
In a post on X, Dendias said the meeting focused on stability and security challenges in the eastern Mediterranean, as well as developments in Iran, the Middle East, Lebanon and Ukraine. He said discussions also covered strengthening defence cooperation between the Greek and British armed forces, particularly in innovation and unmanned systems, within the framework of Greece’s Agenda 2030.
Asked whether Greece would send a ship to the Strait of Hormuz, Dendias said there was currently no such prospect, adding that he did not think there was any such possibility at the moment.
What do you want to know about how Greece and the UK plan to coordinate on eastern Mediterranean security?
