Greek PM Kyriakos Mitsotakis has praised what he described as Greece’s “strategic relations” with Israel, Egypt, and Gulf nations, during an interview at the Delphi Economic Forum on Thursday, 10 April. The remarks came just hours before Israeli military strikes killed at least 13 people in Gaza, including seven children, in yet another wave of deadly raids. Mitsotakis also highlighted a potential collaboration with American oil giant Chevron—despite the company’s recent condemnation by a US court over severe environmental damage in Louisiana’s wetlands, where it was ordered to pay $745 million in damages for pollution and failure to restore the area.

Strategic ties and natural gas exploration

Speaking on foreign policy, Mitsotakis emphasised Greece’s growing regional alliances:

“Greece is building strategic relationships with Israel, Egypt, and Gulf countries. With the support of major US corporations like Exxon and Chevron, we’re exploring the potential for natural gas reserves south of Crete. We aim to be reliable partners in the Eastern Mediterranean, working toward a safe and prosperous region.”

Greece’s role on the global stage

Mitsotakis presented Greece as a significant actor within both the EU and NATO:

“We’re a strong EU and NATO member, with deepening strategic ties to the United States. Greece is now in a position to help shape European policy.”

He supported the US administration’s stance on free trade and welcomed Donald Trump’s previous decision to suspend additional tariffs on European products for 90 days

“This pause offers a window for the EU and US to strike a mutually beneficial deal. A trade war would hurt both sides. Let’s use these 90 days for honest dialogue – the global markets have made it clear tariffs are a serious concern.”

Domestic optimism and 2027 election outlook

Touching on the domestic economy, Mitsotakis voiced optimism:

“As long as we stick to our commitments, boost wages and create jobs, better days lie ahead. Our solid fiscal position is now recognised by the average citizen. If we remain humble and focused, we stand a strong chance in the 2027 elections.”

Gaza violence overshadows diplomatic rhetoric

While the Greek PM speaks about strategic alliances with Israel and allows Benjamin Netanyahu – who is wanted by the International Criminal Court—to pass through Greek airspace en route to Hungary, the Israeli military continues relentless airstrikes on Gaza.

Medical sources told Al Jazeera that at least 13 Palestinians were killed in air raids early Friday. Ten people, including seven children, were killed near Khan Younis in southern Gaza. Further south, in Rafah, another Palestinian was killed and four others injured in a strike targeting civilians.

In central Gaza, Israeli drones attacked civilians in Deir al-Balah. In the north, two were killed and others injured in bombardments near Beit Lahiya, according to Al Jazeera’s on-site correspondent. The wounded were taken to the Indonesian Hospital, with some reported to be in critical condition.

Chevron cooperation promoted

Back in Greece, the government is pressing ahead with a potential energy partnership. Energy Minister Stavros Papastavrou has approved Chevron’s application for hydrocarbon exploration and development rights in two offshore areas south of Crete—labelled “South of Crete 1” and “South of Crete 2”.

Meanwhile, Chevron’s legal troubles in the US involved accusations of worsening tidal flooding by damaging wetlands that might have served as natural defences. The court ruling included $575 million for land loss, $161 million for pollution, and $9 million for abandoned equipment.

While Mitsotakis hails the prospect of a partnership, questions are now being raised about the Greek government’s commitment to environmental responsibility in light of Chevron’s track record.

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