ATHENS – Relations between Greece and France are “closer than ever before”, French Ambassador in Athens Patrick Maisonnave said in an address at a French embassy reception to celebrate July 14, France’s National Day, while highlighting the flight of Greece Rafale aircraft over Paris during the celebrations. The event, held on Thursday evening, was attended by Greek Foreign Minister Nikos Dendias, among others.

“The Greek-French relationship is closer than ever, strengthened by the strategic cooperation we have signed. Symbolic [of it] are the Greek Rafale [aircraft] that flew this morning over Paris on the occasion of the military parade. The relationship between the two governments is excellent and the two people have true mutual respect for each other,” Maisonnave said.

He also referred to the economic cooperation of the two countries, in areas such as transport, renewable energy and defence, as well as the very large number of French tourists that visit Greece and the strong interest of Greeks in the French language and culture.

The French ambassador referred to the domestic situation in France, which was now led by a minority government and noted that the country must “learn the art of compromise”.

This was the first time that the French embassy has received official guests since 2019, while it held a separate event the previous day for the French community in Greece.