Defence Minister Nikos Dendias addressed the opening of the international conference titled “Western Balkans in the Current Context of Security Challenges and Threats” on Thursday.

Dendias emphasized Greece’s position as a bridge between Northeast Africa and Europe, noting that the Balkans are an extension of this role to the north. “Our role as a bridge should not be forgotten,” he stated. He added that Greece not only serves as a bridge but also as a barrier against Islamic radicalization and terrorism.

Highlighting a critical distinction, Dendias said that while many volunteers from Balkan communities joined ISIS, none originated from the Muslim community of Western Thrace in Greece. “We are very proud of this fact,” he stressed, adding that the Muslim minority in Western Thrace has not contributed a single volunteer to radical groups.

Dendias also cautioned against underestimating potential challenges in the Balkans due to conflicts in the north and south. “Over centuries, the Balkans have proven to be a force that impacts the entire world,” he stressed.

Dendias also emphasized that European Union membership could be a pivotal turning point in addressing the security challenges facing the Western Balkans. Dendias underlined that the EU’s commitment to integrating these countries is essential for achieving long-term peace, stability, and prosperity in the region. However, he warned that the stagnation in the enlargement process has undermined the credibility of the European vision.