ATHENS – Deputy National Defence Minister Nikos Hardalias will visit a series of Hellenic Army and Hellenic Navy posts in the islands of the Eastern Aegean on Tuesday and Wednesday.

On Tuesday, he will go to Ikaria, Fournous, Patmos, Lipsous, Leros, Nisyros and Tilos. On Wednesday, he will visit Halki, Kassos and Astypalea.

“Our message is clear. Greece has always and with respect for international law, including the Law of the Sea, sought understanding and good neighbourly relations in a spirit of cooperation and mutual respect. Our country was and remains a force for peace and stability in the wider region of the Eastern Mediterranean. Issues of defence and the strengthening of our deterrent power, as well as issues of national sovereignty remain non-negotiable!” Hardalias stressed in his statement.