NATO chief calls on all sides to show self-restraint

Stoltenberg, during his joint press conference with Government Vice-President Evangelos Venizelos, called on everyone to focus on the serious provocations triggered by the instability in Syria and Iraq as well as Russia's 'aggressive' policies.

On his part, Venizelos clarified that he explained to NATO secretary general that the only solution is the respect to the international maritime law and the problem relates to Turkey's refusal to recognise the Republic of Cyprus.

Moreover, Stoltenberg called on Russia to stop 'destabilising Ukraine' and asked from Moscow 'to withdraw its troops' saying that the elections in the Ukrainian areas controlled by the autonomists undermine the Minsk agreement. He also rejected that we were in a state of "cold war" but accused Russia that it undermined the trust while underlining the need for a strong NATO in high readiness. Moreover, he praised Greece's contribution to the alliance's mission to Kosovo, Afghanistan and in the Mediterranean.

Finally, Venizelos underlined that Greece is an old and trustworthy member of the Alliance and that the Euroatlantic direction contributes to the Greek national interests. He reiterated that Athens meets its commitments as regards the defence expenses, adding that he explained to the secretary general the historic reasons for which the Greek society expects the Alliance's solidarity.