Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis met German Chancellor Friedrich Merz in Berlin on Tuesday, signaling a joint effort to deepen bilateral cooperation on defense, economic reforms, and migration policy amid rising geopolitical tensions.
Mr. Mitsotakis was the first European leader to visit Berlin since Merz took office.
In what both leaders described as a resetting of relations, Mr. Mitsotakis emphasized that Greek-German ties are now based on “mutual respect, honesty, and effective cooperation.”
The two met as Europe confronts renewed security threats from the ongoing war in Ukraine and increasing pressure over migration management.
The discussions centered on economic stability, defense collaboration, support for Ukraine, and migration control. Mr. Mitsotakis highlighted Greece’s fiscal progress, including budget surpluses and declining debt, positioning the country as a reliable economic partner.
He also encouraged Germany to accelerate its digital transformation efforts, referencing Greece’s recent successes.
Regarding Ukraine, both leaders called for an immediate, unconditional 30-day ceasefire.
Mr. Mitsotakis stressed the European Union's responsibility to uphold Ukraine’s territorial integrity and assume a greater defense role, welcoming Germany’s increased defense spending and urging full alignment with EU security policies.
Migration was also a key topic. Mr. Mitsotakis pressed for closer cooperation between Athens and Berlin, particularly on securing Europe’s external borders and streamlining the return of irregular migrants.
Mr. Merz agreed on the need for joint European solutions, underscoring the importance of solidarity and shared responsibility.
While Mr. Merz praised Greece’s economic achievements and supported further reforms, he expressed caution regarding new EU-level debt mechanisms but indicated openness to alternative financing tools for investment and competitiveness.
On Ukraine, Mr. Merz warned that the EU is prepared to impose stricter sanctions on Russia if diplomatic efforts stall, signaling a firmer stance from Berlin.
The Mitsotakis-Merz meeting indicates a renewed strategic alignment between Athens and Berlin at a critical time for Europe, as both countries seek to navigate economic challenges, bolster defense capabilities, and manage migratory pressures with a united approach.