Athens, February 5 – Alain Berset, Secretary General of the 46-member Council of Europe, is scheduled to undertake his inaugural official visit to Greece on February 9 and 10. This visit underscores Greece’s pivotal role as a democratic actor at the intersection of Europe, the Eastern Mediterranean, and the broader Middle East and North Africa region.
Secretary General’s Agenda in Athens
During his state visit to Athens, Secretary General Berset will engage in high-level discussions with key Greek figures. His itinerary includes meetings with the President of the Hellenic Republic, Konstantinos Tasoulas; Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis; Foreign Affairs Minister Georgios Gerapetritis; and members of the Greek delegation to the Council of Europe’s Parliamentary Assembly.
Focus on European Security Environment and Democratic Values
The core of these discussions will revolve around Greece’s contribution to upholding European standards, international law, and multilateralism amidst an increasingly complex global security landscape. Particular emphasis will be placed on several critical areas:
- Democratic resilience
- Judicial independence and accountability
- The fight against corruption
- Migration management, ensuring full compliance with European human-rights obligations
These topics highlight the Council of Europe’s commitment to promoting and protecting human rights, democracy, and the rule of law across its member states.
Lord Byron International Prize for Secretary General Berset
A significant event during the visit will be the awarding of the Lord Byron international prize to Secretary General Berset. The ceremony will take place on the evening of Monday, February 9, at the University of Athens. This prestigious award, presented annually by the Society for Hellenism and Philhellenism, recognizes distinguished international figures whose careers embody the fundamental values of Hellenism, as exemplified by Lord Byron, the renowned Philhellene poet who perished in Missolonghi during the Greek War of Independence.
Greece and the Council of Europe: A Strong Partnership
Greece has been a steadfast member of the Council of Europe, actively participating in its initiatives and contributing to its mission. The visit of Secretary General Berset reaffirms the strong partnership between Greece and the Council of Europe, reinforcing their shared commitment to democratic principles and human rights.
This visit is expected to strengthen bilateral ties and foster further cooperation on issues of mutual interest, particularly in navigating the challenges posed by the current geopolitical climate.
Source: https://www.coe.int/be/web/portal/-/alain-berset-to-emphasise-greece-s-important-geopolitical-role-in-athens-1
