Greece hosts international security meeting

By Idyli Tsakiri

RHODES, Greece

Balkan, Arab and Mediterranean foreign ministers and delegations met in Rhodes on Monday for a two-day conference on regional security and stability.

Eighteen delegations are attending the Rhodes Conference for Security and Stability, including those from 10 Arab countries and eight European states. Indonesia is attending as an observer.

“The constant instability in the area makes it necessary that we work together to find a way to handle the new challenges,” said Nikos Kotzias, Greece’s foreign minister, during his opening speech.

“The wars in Syria and Iraq need to stop,” he added. “We need to agree on a peace treaty that will allow the [displaced] people to return home and build a future with potential and hope for themselves and their children”.

“We need to do everything possible to achieve peace, security and stability in the area. Anyone who wants those qualities has to fight against terrorism and defend human rights,” Kotzias concluded.

Monday’s agenda includes geopolitical challenges, education, culture and the environment.

The conference will conclude on Tuesday.