ATHENS

The Greek premier expressed satisfaction Thursday with the results of informal Cyprus talks earlier this week in Geneva.

“I consider it extremely positive that the (UN) Secretary-General (Antonio Guterres) chose to appoint a personal envoy, so that this process can be kept alive and continue with specific deliverables in view of the next meeting, which will take place in the summer,” Kyriakos Mitsotakis told reporters at the doorstep of the European Council summit in Brussels.

Welcoming the submission of a white paper on defense by the European Commission, he maintained that it includes Greeks views.

Hailing it as an important step for European strategic autonomy, Mitsotakis said, “I am referring, in particular, to the possibility of giving budgetary flexibility to member states, so that they can increase their investments in defense, but also to the creation of a common European fund.”

Adding that the issue of migration will also be discussed at the meeting Thursday, he welcomed the proposed return regulation draft, which he said is in line with the Greek positions.