Greece officially assumed the naval command of the EU’s Operation ASPIDES, in the Red Sea on Friday, Nov. 2, during a ceremony in the African port of Djibouti, attended by the Minister of National Defense, Nikos Dendias. Operation ASPIDES (Shields) is the joint EU-NATO defensive maritime operation aimed at securing free passage of commercial vessels as a response to Houthi attacks in the Red Sea and the Gulf.
The event took place on board the Italian destroyer ITS Andrea Doria, where the operation’s flag was handed over to Greek Captain Konstantinos Pitykakis of the Hellenic Navy by the Italian Rear Admiral Massimo Bonu.
It should be noted that Greece has been responsible for the land-based command of the operation from the beginning, with its headquarters based in Larissa, in central Greece, which hosts a major NATO-specifications base.
Dendias highlighted the importance of Greece’s presence in the region in his address at the ceremony stating: “Our presence here today is of imminent significance—not only for the defense of our shared values, but also for the powerful symbolism it embodies. It demonstrates what Europe can accomplish when we face common challenges with solidarity, unity, and unwavering resolve.”
The defense minister also visited the Greek frigate Spetsai, which is participating in Operation ASPIDES, while in the port of Djibouti.
Addressing the crew, he conveyed messages of determination and commitment.
“This moment reaffirms the role that our nation aspires to play in ensuring maritime security and upholding the principles of international law, especially the Law of the Sea,” Dendias said, adding “I don’t need to explain; each of you understands how crucial this is for our country.”
Source: tovima.com
Latest News
Surge in Investment and Soaring Housing Prices Across Greece
Greek housing prices have climbed sharply, recovering to 2011 levels and edging closer to their 2007 peak.
Greek Kiosks are Dying Out
The iconic Greek kiosk is dying out, and the empty shells remain to remind us of an urban everyday life that no longer exists.
Property Website: Athens-Area Residences Sold Within 6 Months, on Average
Data presented by the platform also shows higher prices in first 3 quarters of 2024
Bank of Greece Hails Economic Progress but Warns Stronger Growth Needed
Today's Bank of Greece Interim Report on Monetary Policy depicts a healthy economy, but warns that stronger growth is needed to fully overcome the economic crisis
Greek Christmas Dinner Costs Surges in 2024
The estimated cost for this year’s Christmas dinner (serving 6-8 people) ranges from 107.54 euros to 148.89 euros
Attica Bank to Eliminate Fees on More Banking Transactions
Attica Bank emphasized that these changes reflect its commitment to providing competitive and high-quality services
Cash Still Reigns in Greece Despite Surge in Electronic Payments
However, the ECB has expressed its opposition regarding legislative efforts by member states to restrict cash usage as a means of combating tax evasion.
Minister: Tourism Revenues in Greece to Hit €22 Billion in 2024
Sustainable development, investments, new offerings, upgraded training at the core of Greece's tourism strategy.
Greece: Double Salary Increase in Private Sector Coming Next Year
Starting from Jan. 1, 2025, social security contributions will be reduced by one percentage point with the aim of easing the burden on both employers and employees.
Eurostat: Inflation in Greece Drops to 3% in Nov., Remains Above EU Average
Greece recorded a higher inflation rate than the EU average, ranking tenth among the countries with the highest inflation rates, for this year