Prime Minister Antonis Samaras had a meeting with the Secretary General of NATO, Anders Fogh Rasmussen, on February 21, wrapping up a two-day visit to Athens which included attending an informal meeting of EU defence ministers. "As the holder of the presidency of the European Union, Greece is especially well placed to make sure that the countries of Europe do develop their capabilities and their strength. This would benefit NATO, the EU and the world," the Secretary General said.

After their talks, Samaras said that the dramatic developments in Ukraine demonstrate the great importance of an organization which offers stability and security such as NATO. Exchanging views on all issues ahead of the NATO summit in Wales in September and, they also discussed the conclusion of the mission in Afghanistan.

During a press conference with Samaras, Rasmussen condemned the bloodshed in Ukraine. "I urge all members to stop the spiral of violence," he said adding that the Ukrainian government had a responsibility to ensure that the army would not be involved. "The only way forward is through dialogue," he underlined.

"We are in the cradle of democracy and democracy is the foundation of NATO. Democracy is in danger in the wider neighborhood. Greece has an active participation in the alliance," the Secretary General said. "We want a strong Europe to ensure our interests," he stressed adding that "we turn the page in our relationship with Afghanistan."