Ukrainian president confirms Greek premier’s attendance at Global Peace Summit

By Aliia Raimbekova

KYIV, Ukraine (AA) - Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy confirmed Wednesday that Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis will attend the first Global Peace Summit of world leaders focused on ending Russia's aggression against Ukraine, which may take place in Switzerland this spring.

Zelenskyy met with Mitsotakis in Ukraine’s Odesa region.

During the meeting, support for the reconstruction of civilian infrastructure in Ukraine including churches, educational institutions and cultural heritage sites destroyed as a result of Russia's attacks was discussed.

Zelenskyy and Mitsotakis held a joint press conference afterwards.

The president pointed out that Russia mainly targets civilian buildings.

"Homes, churches, infrastructure and schools, universities, all of these need to be rebuilt. Today, we discussed this with the prime minister. We invite Greece and Greek companies to participate in relevant efforts."

Zelenskyy expressed his belief that this collaboration would provide new economic and social opportunities to both countries and create employment.

"Today, I thank Greece for its willingness to participate in the restoration of our cultural heritage, especially Odesa, which has a great connection with Greek history and culture. We should not allow (Russian President Vladimir) Putin's hatred to destroy our Odesa, our Europe," he said.

He also said that Ukrainian air defense systems shot down more than 20 Shahed model Russian drones in the Odesa region alone and more than 30 others nationwide the previous night.

"Unfortunately, not all of them could be shot down. There were hits. This morning, there was another attack on Odesa. Every downed UAV, every downed Russian missile and military aircraft means saved lives, homes and infrastructure. Therefore, Ukraine needs assistance in air defense systems and other weapons."

Zelenskyy also said that Ukraine and Greece have begun preparing a bilateral agreement on security commitments as part of a joint declaration on security guarantees for Ukraine signed by G7 countries at last year’s NATO summit in Vilnius.

"Together with Greece, we have begun preparing a bilateral agreement on security commitments – our cooperation in the field of security. I hope that our teams will soon prepare the agreement for signing," he added.

In January, Swiss President Viola Amherd announced that her country will host a global summit on Ukraine’s peace formula.

Zelenskyy presented his 10-point peace plan at the 2022 G20 summit in Indonesia, with its final step being signing a peace accord. It also focuses on issues such as nuclear safety and food and energy security.

*Writing by Seda Sevencan