Government spokesperson Pavlos Marinakis began his briefing of political reporters on Monday by referring to the 52nd anniversary of the Turkish invasion of Cyprus.

“Every anniversary serves as a reminder of an enduring national trauma. Historical truth cannot be erased, and occupation can never be accepted as a fait accompli. Greece bows to the memory of those who fell and expresses its respect and gratitude to all those who defended Cyprus with courage and self-sacrifice. In close coordination with the Republic of Cyprus, Greece remains committed to seeking a comprehensive and mutually acceptable solution based on a bizonal, bicommunal federation. Greece remains ready and will continue to contribute constructively to the next steps of the ongoing effort led by the UN Secretary-General, with the aim of restarting talks on the basis of the agreed framework under the auspices of the United Nations,” he said.

The government spokesperson then said that this year’s European Commission Rule of Law Report confirmed Greece’s steady and measurable progress, placing the country among the 13 EU member states that have shown an improved assessment. He noted that, from 2020 to the present, the Commission’s recommendations concerning Greece had fallen from seven to four, and that for the third consecutive year positive developments had been recorded in relation to all recommendations issued the previous year.

He highlighted that progress in the field of the media was due to reforms aimed at strengthening transparency, the institutional operation of media organisations and the protection of journalists. Among these, he cited the new framework for registers of print and electronic media, the modernisation of the Hellenic Broadcasting Corporation (ERT), the licensing framework for regional television stations, the strengthening of the National Council for Radio and Television (ESR), and the establishment of the National Media Council as a self-regulatory body.

At the same time, he underlined initiatives to improve journalist safety and promote the legislative framework addressing abusive lawsuits against public participation (SLAPPs). He argued that the European Commission’s report constituted a documented response to those who, he said, continue to tarnish the country’s reputation abroad. He added that the government would continue resolutely to strengthen press freedom, transparency, the rule of law and democracy.

Regarding fire protection measures, Marinakis said that the Directorate for Combating Arson Crimes and the investigative services of the Fire Brigade were operating at heightened readiness. From the beginning of the year until 16 July 2026, 577 administrative fines had been imposed, totalling approximately 786,000 euros, while 197 arrests had been made under the procedure for offences committed in the act.

He stressed the importance of compliance with fire safety measures and changing public behaviour in order to prevent wildfires. He also noted that Greece would be the first country to receive the new Canadair aircraft in 2028, with a total of seven next-generation aircraft expected to have been delivered by 2031.