France and Greece are preparing to renew their bilateral defence agreement for another five years, as regional instability heightens security concerns across Europe and the Middle East.
French President Emmanuel Macron is scheduled to visit Greece on April 24–25 to formalize the extension of the pact. Under the new terms, the agreement will be renewed for an additional five-year period, with provisions for automatic renewal thereafter.
A Greek government official said the decision comes against the backdrop of the ongoing conflict involving Iran, which has added fresh uncertainty to the region.
The original agreement, signed in 2021 between the two NATO allies, includes a mutual defence clause requiring each country to assist the other in the event of an attack by a third party. It also covered Greece’s purchase of three French-built frigates and approximately 24 Rafale fighter jets manufactured by Dassault.
During the visit, Macron and Greek officials are also expected to discuss maritime security, with particular focus on the Strait of Hormuz.
Tensions in the region have escalated after Iran reasserted control over the strategic waterway, causing shipping disruptions just days before a fragile ceasefire with the United States was due to expire.
While Greece leads the European Union’s naval mission aimed at protecting vessels in the Red Sea, it has resisted involvement in any military operations in the Strait of Hormuz.
The 2021 defence pact was approved by the Greek Parliament with a strong majority. At the time, Macron described it as a step toward strengthening Europe’s role within NATO and enhancing its capacity for self-defence. Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis called the agreement a milestone toward a more autonomous and resilient Europe.
