More than 800 people were injured from the earthquake that toppled buildings in Izmir, Turkey’s third-largest city, and triggered a small tsunami in the district of Seferihisar and on Samos.

Rescue efforts under way after deadly earthquake in Turkey, Greece

Rescue teams continue to plough through concrete blocks and the debris of collapsed buildings on Sunday in search of survivors of a powerful earthquake that struck Turkey’s Aegean coast and north of the Greek island of Samos on Friday.

The death toll is on a rise -- with multiple&nbsp;reports saying at least 49 people have died.

More than 800 people were injured from the earthquake that toppled buildings in Izmir, Turkey’s third-largest city, and triggered a 'mini' tsunami in the district of Seferihisar and on Samos.

As many as 200 people, or maybe more, were in hospital, AFAD said, and rescuers were still searching eight buildings in Izmir.

Nearly 6,000 rescuers from different agencies and cities worked together to reach survivors, at times hushing the crowds to listen into the rubble with sensitive headphones and crawling through the cracks.&nbsp;

Overnight, 33 hours after the quake, a 55-year-old man named by state news agency Anadolu as Ahmet was pulled out from underneath the rubble to applause of onlookers and taken to hospital.

A 65-year-old man was saved 26 hours after the quake. Rescue teams also saved a mother and her three children from rubble 23 hours after the earthquake.

Two other women, aged 53 and 35, were brought out from the rubble of another toppled two-story building earlier on October 31.

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said Saturday that 103 people have been rescued from the quake's rubble. It was unclear how many more people were trapped under buildings that were levelled.

Turkey’s Disaster and Emergency Management Presidency, or AFAD, said 885 people were injured in Izmir and three other Provinces. The health minister said eight people were being treated in intensive care, with three of them in critical condition.

Two teenagers were killed on the island Samos after being struck by a collapsing wall. At least 19 people were injured on the island, with two, including a 14-year-old, being airlifted to Athens and seven hospitalized on the island, health authorities said.

The small tsunami that hit the Turkish coast also affected Samos, with seawater flooding streets in the main harbour town of Vathi.

The earthquake, which the Istanbul-based Kandilli Institute said had a magnitude of 6.9, was centred in the Aegean northeast of Samos. AFAD said it measured 6.6. and hit at a depth of some 16 km.

The United States Geological Survey (USGS) measured the tremor's magnitude at 7.0 -- at a relatively shallow depth of 21 kilometers (13 miles), the USGS reported, making its impact powerfully felt at ground level around the epicentre.

It was felt across the eastern Greek islands and as far as Athens and in Bulgaria. In Turkey, it shook the regions of Aegean and Marmara, including Istanbul.

Authorities warned residents in Izmir not to return to damaged buildings, saying they could collapse in strong aftershocks.

Turkey has reported more than 800 aftershocks following the quake, including 40 that were above four in magnitude.

Tensions between the two nations have flared recently over energy claims in the eastern Mediterranean.

But despite this, Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis said Friday that he had spoken to his Turkish counterpart and offered his condolences.

"Whatever our differences, these are times when our people need to stand together," Mitsotakis wrote on Twitter.

In a tweet, the Turkish president offered his condolences to Greece and said "that two neighbors show solidarity in difficult times is more valuable than many things in life."

According to Erdogan, both Turkey and Greece were ready to send aid to the other.

(with inputs from agencies)

Rescue teams continue to plough through concrete blocks and the debris of collapsed buildings on Sunday in search of survivors of a powerful earthquake that struck Turkey’s Aegean coast and north of the Greek island of Samos on Friday.

Rescue teams continue to plough through concrete blocks and the debris of collapsed buildings on Sunday in search of survivors of a powerful earthquake that struck Turkey’s Aegean coast and north of the Greek island of Samos on Friday. The death toll is on a rise -- with multiple reports saying at least 49 people have died. More than 800 people were injured from the earthquake that toppled buildings in Izmir, Turkey’s third-largest city, and triggered a 'mini' tsunami in the district of Seferihisar and on Samos. As many as 200 people, or maybe more, were in hospital, AFAD said, and rescuers were still searching eight buildings in Izmir. Nearly 6,000 rescuers from different agencies and cities worked together to reach survivors, at times hushing the crowds to listen into the rubble with sensitive headphones and crawling through the cracks. Overnight, 33 hours after the quake, a 55-year-old man named by state news agency Anadolu as Ahmet was pulled out from underneath the rubble to applause of onlookers and taken to hospital. A 65-year-old man was saved 26 hours after the quake. Rescue teams also saved a mother and her three children from rubble 23 hours after the earthquake. Two other women, aged 53 and 35, were brought out from the rubble of another toppled two-story building earlier on October 31. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said Saturday that 103 people have been rescued from the quake's rubble. It was unclear how many more people were trapped under buildings that were levelled. Turkey’s Disaster and Emergency Management Presidency, or AFAD, said 885 people were injured in Izmir and three other Provinces. The health minister said eight people were being treated in intensive care, with three of them in critical condition. Two teenagers were killed on the island Samos after being struck by a collapsing wall. At least 19 people were injured on the island, with two, including a 14-year-old, being airlifted to Athens and seven hospitalized on the island, health authorities said. The small tsunami that hit the Turkish coast also affected Samos, with seawater flooding streets in the main harbour town of Vathi. The earthquake, which the Istanbul-based Kandilli Institute said had a magnitude of 6.9, was centred in the Aegean northeast of Samos. AFAD said it measured 6.6. and hit at a depth of some 16 km. The United States Geological Survey (USGS) measured the tremor's magnitude at 7.0 -- at a relatively shallow depth of 21 kilometers (13 miles), the USGS reported, making its impact powerfully felt at ground level around the epicentre. It was felt across the eastern Greek islands and as far as Athens and in Bulgaria. In Turkey, it shook the regions of Aegean and Marmara, including Istanbul. Authorities warned residents in Izmir not to return to damaged buildings, saying they could collapse in strong aftershocks. Turkey has reported more than 800 aftershocks following the quake, including 40 that were above four in magnitude. Tensions between the two nations have flared recently over energy claims in the eastern Mediterranean. But despite this, Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis said Friday that he had spoken to his Turkish counterpart and offered his condolences. "Whatever our differences, these are times when our people need to stand together," Mitsotakis wrote on Twitter. In a tweet, the Turkish president offered his condolences to Greece and said "that two neighbors show solidarity in difficult times is more valuable than many things in life." According to Erdogan, both Turkey and Greece were ready to send aid to the other. (with inputs from agencies)

Rescue efforts underway after Aegean Sea earthquake; at least 49 killed

The death toll in the powerful earthquake that levelled buildings across Greece and Turkey has risen to 27.

The 7.0&nbsp;magnitude quake killed 25 people and injured 804 on Turkey's western coast after it struck Friday afternoon, with its epicentre off the coastal town of Seferihisar in Izmir province.

Also killing two teenagers on their way home from school in Greece, it caused a mini-tsunami on the Aegean island of Samos and a sea surge that turned streets into rushing rivers in one Turkish coastal town.

Multiple reports say 20 buildings had collapsed, with officials focussing their rescue efforts on 17 of them. The scenes of devastation suggested the toll could rise.

The region's governor said 70 people had been pulled out alive by Friday evening, although how many more were missing remained unknown by sunset.

Felt in both Istanbul and Athens, it also created a diplomatic opening for the two historic rivals, with Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis placing a rare call to Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan to offer his condolences and support.

Much of the damage occurred in and around Turkey's Aegean resort city of Izmir, which has three million residents and is filled with high-rise apartment blocks.

Parts of entire apartments, including toys, pillows and shattered appliances, spilled out on the streets, where survivors huddled in tears, many too shocked to speak.

Aerial footage showed entire city blocks turned to rubble.

Rescuers, helped by residents and sniffer dogs, used chainsaws to try to force their way through the rubble of one destroyed seven-floor building.

Greece and Turkey are situated in one of the world's most active earthquake zones.

The two neighbours also suffer from historically poor relations despite both being members of the NATO military alliance.

(with inputs)

The death toll in the powerful earthquake that levelled buildings across Greece and Turkey has risen to 27. The 7.0 magnitude quake killed 25 people and injured 804 on Turkey's western coast after it struck Friday afternoon, with its epicentre off the coastal town of Seferihisar in Izmir province.

The death toll in the powerful earthquake that levelled buildings across Greece and Turkey has risen to 27. The 7.0 magnitude quake killed 25 people and injured 804 on Turkey's western coast after it struck Friday afternoon, with its epicentre off the coastal town of Seferihisar in Izmir province. Also killing two teenagers on their way home from school in Greece, it caused a mini-tsunami on the Aegean island of Samos and a sea surge that turned streets into rushing rivers in one Turkish coastal town. Multiple reports say 20 buildings had collapsed, with officials focussing their rescue efforts on 17 of them. The scenes of devastation suggested the toll could rise. The region's governor said 70 people had been pulled out alive by Friday evening, although how many more were missing remained unknown by sunset. Felt in both Istanbul and Athens, it also created a diplomatic opening for the two historic rivals, with Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis placing a rare call to Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan to offer his condolences and support. Much of the damage occurred in and around Turkey's Aegean resort city of Izmir, which has three million residents and is filled with high-rise apartment blocks. Parts of entire apartments, including toys, pillows and shattered appliances, spilled out on the streets, where survivors huddled in tears, many too shocked to speak. Aerial footage showed entire city blocks turned to rubble. Rescuers, helped by residents and sniffer dogs, used chainsaws to try to force their way through the rubble of one destroyed seven-floor building. Greece and Turkey are situated in one of the world's most active earthquake zones. The two neighbours also suffer from historically poor relations despite both being members of the NATO military alliance. (with inputs)

Death toll in major earthquake in Turkey and Greece hits 27

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Greece has briefed India about the current situation in the eastern Mediterranean. The foreign ministers of India and Greece met virtually on Thursday.&nbsp;

The situation has been tensed in the eastern Mediterranean as Greece and Turkey have been embroiled in a dispute over energy exploration rights and maritime boundaries in the area. The situation is getting worrisome as Ankara plans to conduct a seismic survey in the region.

A tweet by Greece's foreign minister Nikos Dendias said, "In a video conference with India FM Dr S Jaishankar. Strengthening Greek, India relations &amp; developments in Eastern Mediterranean &amp; South Asia in focus."

Delhi's ties with Turkey are not at their best -- given the support by Turkish President Recep Erdogan to Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan. Erdogan had also raked the Kashmir issue at the United Nations.

During the virtual meet, the two ministers undertook a detailed review of bilateral ties, underpinned by long-standing historical and friendly relations as well as commonality of views on major international issues of the day, a minister of external affairs release said.&nbsp;

They also "discussed a wide range of regional and multilateral issues" especially in the context of India’s upcoming membership of the UNSC, the release added.&nbsp;

Greece has briefed India about the current situation in the eastern Mediterranean. The foreign ministers of India and Greece met virtually on Thursday. The situation has been tensed in the eastern Mediterranean as Greece and Turkey have been embroiled in a dispute over energy exploration rights and maritime boundaries in the area.

Greece has briefed India about the current situation in the eastern Mediterranean. The foreign ministers of India and Greece met virtually on Thursday. The situation has been tensed in the eastern Mediterranean as Greece and Turkey have been embroiled in a dispute over energy exploration rights and maritime boundaries in the area. The situation is getting worrisome as Ankara plans to conduct a seismic survey in the region. A tweet by Greece's foreign minister Nikos Dendias said, "In a video conference with India FM Dr S Jaishankar. Strengthening Greek, India relations & developments in Eastern Mediterranean & South Asia in focus." Delhi's ties with Turkey are not at their best -- given the support by Turkish President Recep Erdogan to Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan. Erdogan had also raked the Kashmir issue at the United Nations. During the virtual meet, the two ministers undertook a detailed review of bilateral ties, underpinned by long-standing historical and friendly relations as well as commonality of views on major international issues of the day, a minister of external affairs release said. They also "discussed a wide range of regional and multilateral issues" especially in the context of India’s upcoming membership of the UNSC, the release added.

Greece briefs India about situation in eastern Mediterranean

Two crew members of a Greek minesweeper were slightly hurt Tuesday after it collided with a Portuguese container ship off Piraeus, the port next to Athens, the navy said.

There were 27 sailors on board the naval vessel, who were rescued by coastguard patrol boats.

The two injured were taken to hospital for treatment.

The minesweeper suffered serious damage to the stern and was towed back to the naval base on the nearby island of Salamina, the merchant navy ministry said.

Piraeus port authorities opened an inquiry into the incident and confined to port the container ship Maerck Launceston, which flies a Portuguese flag.

Two crew members of a Greek minesweeper were slightly hurt Tuesday after it collided with a Portuguese container ship off Piraeus, the port next to Athens, the navy said.

Two crew members of a Greek minesweeper were slightly hurt Tuesday after it collided with a Portuguese container ship off Piraeus, the port next to Athens, the navy said. There were 27 sailors on board the naval vessel, who were rescued by coastguard patrol boats. The two injured were taken to hospital for treatment. The minesweeper suffered serious damage to the stern and was towed back to the naval base on the nearby island of Salamina, the merchant navy ministry said. Piraeus port authorities opened an inquiry into the incident and confined to port the container ship Maerck Launceston, which flies a Portuguese flag.

Two hurt as Greek warship collides with freighter

A Greek university student with disabilities has achieved her lifelong ambition of reaching the summit of Mount Olympus, Greece’s highest peak strapped to the back of a friend.

Student with disabilities conquers Greece's highest peak

Student with disabilities climbing Greece's highest peak

Greece and Cyprus pushed for a tougher European Union response to Turkey`s natural gas exploration in contested Mediterranean waters at an EU summit on Friday but were essentially told to hold off until another leaders` meeting in December.

Two weeks after their last summit where leaders discussed economic sanctions, the EU has so far failed to persuade Ankara to stop exploring in waters disputed by Greece and Cyprus.

Turkey said on Wednesday it was restarting operations of a survey ship that it withdrew last month.

"We plan a summit in December. And we have planned, indeed, to tackle again and to assess the situation in the eastern Mediterranean and in Turkey," European Council President Charles Michel told a news conference after the summit.

France and Germany said earlier this week that Turkey had only "weeks" to revise its stance and stop what they also said were provocations, but declined to give a strong ultimatum as Athens and Nicosia would like.

French President Emmanuel Macron said after the summit that leaders had reaffirmed support for Greece and Turkey, but were also open to talks with Ankara.

EU leaders had agreed on Oct. 2 to give Turkey until early December before considering economic sanctions and Germany, which has so far led diplomatic talks with Ankara, wants to give dialogue a chance because of close EU-Turkey trade ties.

Cyprus is frustrated that, in addition to the Turkish exploration ship off a Greek island, Turkey has sent another vessel to Cyprus`s economic zone to conduct seismic surveys.

EU member Cyprus is also furious that Turkish Cypriot authorities have partially reopened the beach town of Varosha, a former resort area fenced off and abandoned in no-man`s land since a 1974 Turkish invasion that split the island.

"Turkey remains consistent in its provocative and aggressive behaviour," Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis said on Thursday in Brussels.

Greece and Cyprus pushed for a tougher European Union response to Turkey`s natural gas exploration in contested Mediterranean waters at an EU summit on Friday but were essentially told to hold off until another leaders` meeting in December.

Greece and Cyprus pushed for a tougher European Union response to Turkey`s natural gas exploration in contested Mediterranean waters at an EU summit on Friday but were essentially told to hold off until another leaders` meeting in December. Two weeks after their last summit where leaders discussed economic sanctions, the EU has so far failed to persuade Ankara to stop exploring in waters disputed by Greece and Cyprus. Turkey said on Wednesday it was restarting operations of a survey ship that it withdrew last month. "We plan a summit in December. And we have planned, indeed, to tackle again and to assess the situation in the eastern Mediterranean and in Turkey," European Council President Charles Michel told a news conference after the summit. France and Germany said earlier this week that Turkey had only "weeks" to revise its stance and stop what they also said were provocations, but declined to give a strong ultimatum as Athens and Nicosia would like. French President Emmanuel Macron said after the summit that leaders had reaffirmed support for Greece and Turkey, but were also open to talks with Ankara. EU leaders had agreed on Oct. 2 to give Turkey until early December before considering economic sanctions and Germany, which has so far led diplomatic talks with Ankara, wants to give dialogue a chance because of close EU-Turkey trade ties. Cyprus is frustrated that, in addition to the Turkish exploration ship off a Greek island, Turkey has sent another vessel to Cyprus`s economic zone to conduct seismic surveys. EU member Cyprus is also furious that Turkish Cypriot authorities have partially reopened the beach town of Varosha, a former resort area fenced off and abandoned in no-man`s land since a 1974 Turkish invasion that split the island. "Turkey remains consistent in its provocative and aggressive behaviour," Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis said on Thursday in Brussels.

Greece, Cyprus told to wait for EU action on 'provocative' Turkey

Turkey announced plans late Sunday to send the research ship at the centre of an energy rights row with Greece to the eastern Mediterranean again, a move likely to reignite tensions with Athens.

Turkey to send its ship back to eastern Mediterranean again

A Greek court has found the Neo-Nazi party Golden Dawn guilty of acting as a criminal organisation. Watch report.

WION Dispatch: Athens courts' historic verdict, 'Golden dawn a criminal group'

A Greek court has found the neo-Nazi party Golden Dawn guilty of acting as a criminal organisation. Watch report.

Greek political party banned: Supporters clash with police

Golden Dawn, Greece's new-Nazi group has been branded as a criminal organisation by a local court. The decision was announced on Wednesday.

As per the decision taken, the leaders associated with the group will be facing a heavy sentence.

This trial was one of the longest trials to take place, as it lasted over five years with&nbsp;Maria Lepenioti as the presiding judge. Lepenioti has branded the founder of Golden Dawn&nbsp;Nikos Michaloliakos as a criminal.

Michaloliakos, along with other members of the neo-Nazi group will be facing a jail sentence ranging from five to 15 years. The sentences will be announced in separate hearings.

People started gathering outside the local court where the trial was to take place. With placards reading&nbsp;"The people want the Nazis in jail", protestors asked for justice.

After the decision was taken,&nbsp;few clashes broke out between police and anti-fascist demonstrators which saw an attendance of nearly 15,000 demonstrators.

The matter had come to light after a 34-year-old&nbsp;anti-fascist rapper called Pavlos Fyssas was chased down by a mob of Golden Dawn thugs and stabbed to death in front of a cafe in the western Athens suburb of Keratsini in September 2013.

The killer, former truck driver Yiorgos Roupakias, confessed, but the attack sparked outrage and the charges that Golden Dawn was a paramilitary-style organisation that used beatings, intimidation and murder as tactics — all with the knowledge of senior party members.

Nearly 68 members were on trial, including the Founder of the group, and were being judged for two-three such cases where people had been chased and/or killed by this new-Nazi group.

The group has had a strong political standing in the past.&nbsp;

Golden Dawn was at its political peak at the time of Fyssas's murder, having won 18 seats in the 300-seat parliament in 2012 amid anger over a financial crisis in Greece that discredited mainstream political parties.

Three years later, it also sent three deputies to the European parliament in another strong showing.

(With inputs from AFP)

Golden Dawn, Greece's new-Nazi group has been branded as a criminal organisation by a local court. The decision was announced on Wednesday. As per the decision taken, the leaders associated with the group will be facing a heavy sentence.

Golden Dawn, Greece's new-Nazi group has been branded as a criminal organisation by a local court. The decision was announced on Wednesday. As per the decision taken, the leaders associated with the group will be facing a heavy sentence. This trial was one of the longest trials to take place, as it lasted over five years with Maria Lepenioti as the presiding judge. Lepenioti has branded the founder of Golden Dawn Nikos Michaloliakos as a criminal. Michaloliakos, along with other members of the neo-Nazi group will be facing a jail sentence ranging from five to 15 years. The sentences will be announced in separate hearings. People started gathering outside the local court where the trial was to take place. With placards reading "The people want the Nazis in jail", protestors asked for justice. After the decision was taken, few clashes broke out between police and anti-fascist demonstrators which saw an attendance of nearly 15,000 demonstrators. The matter had come to light after a 34-year-old anti-fascist rapper called Pavlos Fyssas was chased down by a mob of Golden Dawn thugs and stabbed to death in front of a cafe in the western Athens suburb of Keratsini in September 2013. The killer, former truck driver Yiorgos Roupakias, confessed, but the attack sparked outrage and the charges that Golden Dawn was a paramilitary-style organisation that used beatings, intimidation and murder as tactics — all with the knowledge of senior party members. Nearly 68 members were on trial, including the Founder of the group, and were being judged for two-three such cases where people had been chased and/or killed by this new-Nazi group. The group has had a strong political standing in the past. Golden Dawn was at its political peak at the time of Fyssas's murder, having won 18 seats in the 300-seat parliament in 2012 amid anger over a financial crisis in Greece that discredited mainstream political parties. Three years later, it also sent three deputies to the European parliament in another strong showing. (With inputs from AFP)

Neo-Nazi group branded as criminal organisation by Greek court

In the first petrol bombs were herd at hundreds of protesting students in Greece for demanded more curbs at schools for combating the spread of coronavirus.

First pro-curb protest: Students in Greece protest for greater curbs

All unaccompanied minors have been removed from migrant camps on Greek islands, Asylum Minister Notis Mitarachi said Sunday.

But refugee groups are still up in arms over Athens' plans to keep the island facilities open for other asylum seekers, as well as a plan from Brussels to place the emphasis of EU migrant policy more firmly on removing people in Europe irregularly.

"There are no unaccompanied minors in any of the reception and identification centres on the islands", Mitarachi told Real radio.

The minister added that migrant arrivals in Greece were down "more than 89 percent" in the past quarter, adding that "departures, relocations, legal deportations and voluntary returns are more than the arrivals.".

Asylum activists have accused Greece of reducing arrivals by stepping up illegal pushbacks in the Aegean Sea in recent months.

But Mitarachi insisted that the drop was because Athens "has broken the chain of the people smuggling" in the region.

Greece's government has cautiously welcomed a plan from Brussels to reform the EU's shaky asylum system, but charity groups working with refugees on the ground have blasted a continued "outrageous containment policy".

The "New Pact on Migration and Asylum", unveiled on Wednesday, calls for a tougher stance on returning migrants who do not have the right to stay in the EU, and ratcheting up border controls.

The only flaw from Greece's perspective is the Commission giving up on quota-based redistribution of asylum seekers among EU countries -- a plan first mooted during the migration crisis of 2015 but which foundered on opposition from several member states.

"While there has been a climate of support from Europe after the Moria blaze, the final answers are not what some people might expect. There is a reserve in member states with few exceptions. Our country is constantly asking for relocations", Migration minister said.

The Greek government has long struggled to manage overcrowding in camps on the five islands most affected by the arrivals, especially since the Moria camp on Lesbos burned down on September 8 and 9.

Half of the 24,000 migrants packed into Greek camps remain on Lesbos.

Authorities rushed to set up a provisional site for those left without shelter by the blaze, but charity groups are already incensed at conditions there.

"We have continuously exposed the human cost of this outrageous containment policy to leaders in European capitals, to commissioners in Brussels and to citizens through the media, but nothing seems to lead to a desperately needed radical policy change," Doctors Without Borders (MSF) president Christos Christou tweeted Wednesday.

All unaccompanied minors have been removed from migrant camps on Greek islands, Asylum Minister Notis Mitarachi said Sunday. But refugee groups are still up in arms over Athens' plans to keep the island facilities open for other asylum seekers, as well as a plan from Brussels to place the emphasis of EU migrant policy more firmly on removing people in Europe irregularly.

All unaccompanied minors have been removed from migrant camps on Greek islands, Asylum Minister Notis Mitarachi said Sunday. But refugee groups are still up in arms over Athens' plans to keep the island facilities open for other asylum seekers, as well as a plan from Brussels to place the emphasis of EU migrant policy more firmly on removing people in Europe irregularly. "There are no unaccompanied minors in any of the reception and identification centres on the islands", Mitarachi told Real radio. The minister added that migrant arrivals in Greece were down "more than 89 percent" in the past quarter, adding that "departures, relocations, legal deportations and voluntary returns are more than the arrivals.". Asylum activists have accused Greece of reducing arrivals by stepping up illegal pushbacks in the Aegean Sea in recent months. But Mitarachi insisted that the drop was because Athens "has broken the chain of the people smuggling" in the region. Greece's government has cautiously welcomed a plan from Brussels to reform the EU's shaky asylum system, but charity groups working with refugees on the ground have blasted a continued "outrageous containment policy". The "New Pact on Migration and Asylum", unveiled on Wednesday, calls for a tougher stance on returning migrants who do not have the right to stay in the EU, and ratcheting up border controls. The only flaw from Greece's perspective is the Commission giving up on quota-based redistribution of asylum seekers among EU countries -- a plan first mooted during the migration crisis of 2015 but which foundered on opposition from several member states. "While there has been a climate of support from Europe after the Moria blaze, the final answers are not what some people might expect. There is a reserve in member states with few exceptions. Our country is constantly asking for relocations", Migration minister said. The Greek government has long struggled to manage overcrowding in camps on the five islands most affected by the arrivals, especially since the Moria camp on Lesbos burned down on September 8 and 9. Half of the 24,000 migrants packed into Greek camps remain on Lesbos. Authorities rushed to set up a provisional site for those left without shelter by the blaze, but charity groups are already incensed at conditions there. "We have continuously exposed the human cost of this outrageous containment policy to leaders in European capitals, to commissioners in Brussels and to citizens through the media, but nothing seems to lead to a desperately needed radical policy change," Doctors Without Borders (MSF) president Christos Christou tweeted Wednesday.

Greece says no unaccompanied minors remain in island camps

How tourism is making a return in times of coronavirus

Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis has appealed to Turkey to find a diplomatic solution to the tension in the eastern Mediterranean, saying he hopes to build a partnership between the historic rival neighbours.

Greece PM invites Turkey for talks: 'Give diplomacy a chance'

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo will visit Greece next week in a show of support following high tensions in the Mediterranean with Turkey, the State Department announced Thursday.

Pompeo will also travel to Italy, with a stop in Vatican City, to discuss religious freedom, and Croatia on the September 27-October 2 trip.

In his second trip to Greece in less than a year, Pompeo will go both to the northern city of Thessaloniki and the southern island of Crete, where he will meet with Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/greece-says-its-close-to-resuming-maritime-talks-with-turkey-329270">Also read:&nbsp;Greece says it's close to resuming maritime talks with Turkey</a>

Pompeo will "renew our shared commitment to advance security, peace and prosperity in the Eastern Mediterranean and celebrate the strongest US-Greek relationship in decades," the State Department said.

In Crete, he will visit the NATO base at Souda Bay "to underscore the strong US security partnership with NATO ally Greece," it said.

Historic tensions flared last month when Turkey sent a vessel backed by military frigates to hunt for oil and gas reserves in waters also claimed by Greece.

Greece responded with naval exercises as a warning and has enjoyed especially vocal backing from France.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-imposes-sanctions-against-iran-venezuelas-maduro-329294">Also read:&nbsp;US imposes sanctions against Iran, Venezuela's Maduro</a>

But the tone has recently softened between Greece and Turkey, also a NATO member, with the two agreeing Tuesday to begin exploratory talks on their dispute.

Pompeo earlier this month also discussed the row on a visit to Cyprus, the majority-Greek island whose northern third is occupied by Turkey.

The United States recently lifted a decades-long arms embargo on Cyprus, outraging Turkey.

But President Donald Trump has maintained warm relations with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, who controversially helped persuade the US leader to pull troops from Syria.

Relations have been growing for several years between Washington and Athens, which has been building energy ties with US ally Israel.

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo will visit Greece next week in a show of support following high tensions in the Mediterranean with Turkey, the State Department announced Thursday.

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo will visit Greece next week in a show of support following high tensions in the Mediterranean with Turkey, the State Department announced Thursday. Pompeo will also travel to Italy, with a stop in Vatican City, to discuss religious freedom, and Croatia on the September 27-October 2 trip. In his second trip to Greece in less than a year, Pompeo will go both to the northern city of Thessaloniki and the southern island of Crete, where he will meet with Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis. Also read: Greece says it's close to resuming maritime talks with Turkey Pompeo will "renew our shared commitment to advance security, peace and prosperity in the Eastern Mediterranean and celebrate the strongest US-Greek relationship in decades," the State Department said. In Crete, he will visit the NATO base at Souda Bay "to underscore the strong US security partnership with NATO ally Greece," it said. Historic tensions flared last month when Turkey sent a vessel backed by military frigates to hunt for oil and gas reserves in waters also claimed by Greece. Greece responded with naval exercises as a warning and has enjoyed especially vocal backing from France. Also read: US imposes sanctions against Iran, Venezuela's Maduro But the tone has recently softened between Greece and Turkey, also a NATO member, with the two agreeing Tuesday to begin exploratory talks on their dispute. Pompeo earlier this month also discussed the row on a visit to Cyprus, the majority-Greek island whose northern third is occupied by Turkey. The United States recently lifted a decades-long arms embargo on Cyprus, outraging Turkey. But President Donald Trump has maintained warm relations with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, who controversially helped persuade the US leader to pull troops from Syria. Relations have been growing for several years between Washington and Athens, which has been building energy ties with US ally Israel.

Pompeo to show support for Greece amid Turkey tensions

Turkey and Greece have expressed that they are ready to resume exploratory talks, following weeks of tension in the eastern Mediterranean sea.

Greece to hold talks with Turkey over energy resources dispute

Greece is close to resuming talks with Turkey over maritime zones, government spokesman Stelios Petsas said on Monday, after Ankara this month recalled an oil and gas exploration vessel from disputed Mediterranean waters in a move welcomed by Athens.

NATO members Turkey and Greece bitterly disagree over maritime jurisdiction and energy exploration rights in the eastern Mediterranean, based on conflicting views about the extent of their continental shelves.

Turkey infuriated Greece last month when it sent the Oruc Reis seismic survey vessel to the area. Ankara says the boat has now been recalled for routine maintenance.

"We're close to resuming exploratory talks, but how soon this will happen depends on both sides, on Greece and Turkey. The sentiment is good," Petsas told reporters, adding that Ankara had also indicated its wish for a resumption of talks.

The long-running discussions between Athens and Ankara on demarcating their maritime zones broke down in 2016. Greek media say they could resume as early as this week.

Greece and its close ally Cyprus, both European Union member states, are locked in a dispute with Turkey over overlapping claims to areas believed to be rich in natural gas.

EU leaders are expected to evaluate the situation at a summit on Sept 24-25, though member states are divided over how best to proceed.

EU foreign ministers also discussed the issue at a meeting on Monday and agreed that Turkey's move to recall Oruc Reis was a first, positive step, Greek Foreign Minister Nikos Dendias said after the meeting. He added that the EU wanted Turkey to make more efforts to show it respected international law.

Turkey's presidential spokesman said on Sunday that exploratory talks could resume but that threats of EU sanctions were not helpful.

Cyprus has pressed for sanctions against Turkey, angered by Ankara's move last week to extend the operations of two vessels in Mediterranean waters off Cyprus until mid-October.,

But, underscoring Greece's milder tone following the withdrawal of the Oruc Reis, Petsas said on Monday the EU should examine ways to activate sanctions only if Turkey does not stick to its recent stance of de-escalation in the east Mediterranean.

US&nbsp;Secretary of State Mike Pompeo is also due to visit Greece this month. He has said the United States is "deeply concerned" about Turkey's actions in the eastern Mediterrean and has urged a diplomatic end to the crisis.

Greece is close to resuming talks with Turkey over maritime zones, government spokesman Stelios Petsas said on Monday, after Ankara this month recalled an oil and gas exploration vessel from disputed Mediterranean waters in a move welcomed by Athens.

Greece is close to resuming talks with Turkey over maritime zones, government spokesman Stelios Petsas said on Monday, after Ankara this month recalled an oil and gas exploration vessel from disputed Mediterranean waters in a move welcomed by Athens. NATO members Turkey and Greece bitterly disagree over maritime jurisdiction and energy exploration rights in the eastern Mediterranean, based on conflicting views about the extent of their continental shelves. Turkey infuriated Greece last month when it sent the Oruc Reis seismic survey vessel to the area. Ankara says the boat has now been recalled for routine maintenance. "We're close to resuming exploratory talks, but how soon this will happen depends on both sides, on Greece and Turkey. The sentiment is good," Petsas told reporters, adding that Ankara had also indicated its wish for a resumption of talks. The long-running discussions between Athens and Ankara on demarcating their maritime zones broke down in 2016. Greek media say they could resume as early as this week. Greece and its close ally Cyprus, both European Union member states, are locked in a dispute with Turkey over overlapping claims to areas believed to be rich in natural gas. EU leaders are expected to evaluate the situation at a summit on Sept 24-25, though member states are divided over how best to proceed. EU foreign ministers also discussed the issue at a meeting on Monday and agreed that Turkey's move to recall Oruc Reis was a first, positive step, Greek Foreign Minister Nikos Dendias said after the meeting. He added that the EU wanted Turkey to make more efforts to show it respected international law. Turkey's presidential spokesman said on Sunday that exploratory talks could resume but that threats of EU sanctions were not helpful. Cyprus has pressed for sanctions against Turkey, angered by Ankara's move last week to extend the operations of two vessels in Mediterranean waters off Cyprus until mid-October., But, underscoring Greece's milder tone following the withdrawal of the Oruc Reis, Petsas said on Monday the EU should examine ways to activate sanctions only if Turkey does not stick to its recent stance of de-escalation in the east Mediterranean. US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo is also due to visit Greece this month. He has said the United States is "deeply concerned" about Turkey's actions in the eastern Mediterrean and has urged a diplomatic end to the crisis.

Greece says it's close to resuming maritime talks with Turkey

At least two people have been found dead and many more are missing after central Greece was lashed by a rare hurricane-like storm known as a 'medicane'.

Two killed in hurricane-like storm in Greece, many people feared missing

Most of the asylum seekers who were left homeless after fires ripped through their camp on Lesbos island have moved to a new temporary site, Greece's migration ministry said on Saturday.&nbsp;

Forced to sleep rough for days after the blazes wrecked their Moria camp last week, roughly 9,000 of the 12,700 homeless have now settled at the hastily built site of white tents.

Some have resisted entering the new camp fearing they may get stuck there, but a police operation combined with threats to discard the asylum requests of those who refuse has helped to push thousands into the facility.

The destruction of Moria, a notoriously overcrowded and dirty camp, strengthened calls from locals and humanitarian organisations for the migrants to be moved off the island.

Six Afghans have been arrested over the blazes, the first of which happened on September 8 shortly after 35 people were found to have contracted coronavirus.

The UN refugee agency has warned Greece that the new camp can only be temporary, saying on Friday that "what may be deemed adequate in terms of shelter and services during emergency situations is not appropriate for the longer-term".

All those entering the camp are given a virus test and 214 cases have so far been detected, according to the migration ministry.

Access to all migrant camps has been restricted since March because of the pandemic -- a move criticised by aid groups that point out that measures began to be lifted elsewhere in Greece in May. 
&nbsp;

Most of the asylum seekers who were left homeless after fires ripped through their camp on Lesbos island have moved to a new temporary site, Greece's migration ministry said on Saturday.

Most of the asylum seekers who were left homeless after fires ripped through their camp on Lesbos island have moved to a new temporary site, Greece's migration ministry said on Saturday. Forced to sleep rough for days after the blazes wrecked their Moria camp last week, roughly 9,000 of the 12,700 homeless have now settled at the hastily built site of white tents. Some have resisted entering the new camp fearing they may get stuck there, but a police operation combined with threats to discard the asylum requests of those who refuse has helped to push thousands into the facility. The destruction of Moria, a notoriously overcrowded and dirty camp, strengthened calls from locals and humanitarian organisations for the migrants to be moved off the island. Six Afghans have been arrested over the blazes, the first of which happened on September 8 shortly after 35 people were found to have contracted coronavirus. The UN refugee agency has warned Greece that the new camp can only be temporary, saying on Friday that "what may be deemed adequate in terms of shelter and services during emergency situations is not appropriate for the longer-term". All those entering the camp are given a virus test and 214 cases have so far been detected, according to the migration ministry. Access to all migrant camps has been restricted since March because of the pandemic -- a move criticised by aid groups that point out that measures began to be lifted elsewhere in Greece in May.

Most homeless Lesbos migrants head to new camp after fire

As an artist, 42- year old Ahmad Shukran Shehrzad knew only one way to express the pain and hardship he and other migrants on Lesbos have faced. He picked up a brush and started painting. When flames engulfed Moria migrants camp last week, thousands of people fled in droves and were forced to sleep in the street, without proper shelter, sanitation, food or water.

Afghan artist brings refugees flight from Moria inferno to life

The Greek police is moving hundreds of migrants to a temporary tent after the infamous migrants camps were destroyed few weeks back.

A police operation has been launched by the local authorities to help these migrants shoift to another new tent temporarily. The operation also involved around 70 female officers to make sure the young girls and women are comfortable.

"The operation began with many officers in white body suits. Things are calm and migrants are slowly streaming into the new camp," local reporters of Reuters were told.

Government&nbsp;spokesman Stelios Petsas said nearly 1,200 people were present in the camp who are now being transferred.

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The new temporary tent camp at Kara Tepe, near the island's port of Mytilene, is ready to take in at least 8,000 people, but officials have said that some of the migrants were reluctant to move there as they hoped to leave the island.

The decision has been taken after thousands of migrants were seen camping outside the&nbsp;temporary settlement at Kara Tepe.

"We are smoothly moving into completing the resettlement of all (asylum-seekers) into this temporary facility," Mitarachi said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/thirteen-migrants-detained-after-second-fire-breaks-out-in-greek-migrant-camp-327870">Also read:&nbsp;Thirteen migrants detained after second fire breaks out in Greek migrant camp</a>

The authorities have blamed the fire on the migrants, claiming the initial reports have pointed that the migrants, themselves, started the fire.

While some European countries came out to support and take migrants to help, the Greek authorities are not happy with the&nbsp;reactions and allegations.

"Our country, the Aegean islands, bore a huge burden during these five years into the migration crisis. The European Union must finally be more specific about European solidarity," Mitarachi said.

"Five islands cannot be carrying the whole burden of migrant flows into the European Union."&nbsp;

The Greek police is moving hundreds of migrants to a temporary tent after the infamous migrants camps were destroyed few weeks back. A police operation has been launched by the local authorities to help these migrants shoift to another new tent temporarily.

The Greek police is moving hundreds of migrants to a temporary tent after the infamous migrants camps were destroyed few weeks back. A police operation has been launched by the local authorities to help these migrants shoift to another new tent temporarily. The operation also involved around 70 female officers to make sure the young girls and women are comfortable. "The operation began with many officers in white body suits. Things are calm and migrants are slowly streaming into the new camp," local reporters of Reuters were told. Government spokesman Stelios Petsas said nearly 1,200 people were present in the camp who are now being transferred. × The new temporary tent camp at Kara Tepe, near the island's port of Mytilene, is ready to take in at least 8,000 people, but officials have said that some of the migrants were reluctant to move there as they hoped to leave the island. The decision has been taken after thousands of migrants were seen camping outside the temporary settlement at Kara Tepe. "We are smoothly moving into completing the resettlement of all (asylum-seekers) into this temporary facility," Mitarachi said. Also read: Thirteen migrants detained after second fire breaks out in Greek migrant camp The authorities have blamed the fire on the migrants, claiming the initial reports have pointed that the migrants, themselves, started the fire. While some European countries came out to support and take migrants to help, the Greek authorities are not happy with the reactions and allegations. "Our country, the Aegean islands, bore a huge burden during these five years into the migration crisis. The European Union must finally be more specific about European solidarity," Mitarachi said. "Five islands cannot be carrying the whole burden of migrant flows into the European Union."

Greek police transfers migrants to temporary tent after fire destroys camp

Around 30 Pakistanis living illegally in Greece, were held captive, on Crete Island recently due to their `aggressive behaviour` at the workplace and were released only after intervention by Pakistani Embassy in Athens, sources said.

Recently, a Pakistani man harrased a Greek girl at their work place. The incident angered many Greece people who attacked a mosque which is used by Pakistanis at Tympaki on Crete Island.

"A mosque being used by Pakistanis at Tympaki on Crete Island was attacked by 200-300 Greek youths in the evening of 10.09. Provocation for the attack was eve-teasing of a Greek girl by a Pakistani man at their work place," the sources said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/thirteen-migrants-detained-after-second-fire-breaks-out-in-greek-migrant-camp-327870">Also read:&nbsp;Thirteen migrants detained after second fire breaks out in Greek migrant camp</a>

"About 25-30 illegal Pakistanis were held captive by Greeks due to former`s aggressive behaviour at work place on Crete Island during the last week of August 2020. They could be released after intervention by Pakistani Embassy, Athens," they added.

The Pakistani community of Greece led by Javed Aslam Arian has termed these incidents as racist and fascist.

The illegeal immigration from Pakistan and Afghanistan is cause of concerns for Greece authorities. According to Greek City Times, Greece authorities wants to evict over 10,000 illegal immigrants that Greece.

Greece has started to deport Pakistani illegeal immigrants in July. In late July, the first flight to return illegal immigrants of Pakistani nationality back to their country of origin took off from Athens International Airport.

The flight returned 30 Pakistanis who illegally entered Greek territory and is the first ina series of forced returns that will follow.

Around 30 Pakistanis living illegally in Greece, were held captive, on Crete Island recently due to their `aggressive behaviour` at the workplace and were released only after intervention by Pakistani Embassy in Athens, sources said.

Around 30 Pakistanis living illegally in Greece, were held captive, on Crete Island recently due to their `aggressive behaviour` at the workplace and were released only after intervention by Pakistani Embassy in Athens, sources said. Recently, a Pakistani man harrased a Greek girl at their work place. The incident angered many Greece people who attacked a mosque which is used by Pakistanis at Tympaki on Crete Island. "A mosque being used by Pakistanis at Tympaki on Crete Island was attacked by 200-300 Greek youths in the evening of 10.09. Provocation for the attack was eve-teasing of a Greek girl by a Pakistani man at their work place," the sources said. Also read: Thirteen migrants detained after second fire breaks out in Greek migrant camp "About 25-30 illegal Pakistanis were held captive by Greeks due to former`s aggressive behaviour at work place on Crete Island during the last week of August 2020. They could be released after intervention by Pakistani Embassy, Athens," they added. The Pakistani community of Greece led by Javed Aslam Arian has termed these incidents as racist and fascist. The illegeal immigration from Pakistan and Afghanistan is cause of concerns for Greece authorities. According to Greek City Times, Greece authorities wants to evict over 10,000 illegal immigrants that Greece. Greece has started to deport Pakistani illegeal immigrants in July. In late July, the first flight to return illegal immigrants of Pakistani nationality back to their country of origin took off from Athens International Airport. The flight returned 30 Pakistanis who illegally entered Greek territory and is the first ina series of forced returns that will follow.

Illegal Pakistanis held captive in Greece for 'aggressive behaviour' released

Germany wants to take in about 1,500 migrants stranded on Greek islands after a fire destroyed an overcrowded camp, government sources said on Tuesday, in a gesture of solidarity with its fellow European Union member state.

The decision by Chancellor Angela Merkel follows a rise in opinion polls by her conservative party, at the expense of the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party, after what is widely seen as her steady handling of the coronavirus crisis.

More than 12,000 people, mostly asylum seekers from Afghanistan, Africa and Syria, were left without shelter, proper sanitation or access to food after a fire destroyed the Moria migrant camp on the island of Lesbos last week.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/teargas-fired-during-migrant-protests-on-greek-island-of-lesbos-327068" hreflang="en">Teargas fired during migrant protests on Greek island of Lesbos</a>

The German government sources told Reuters that Germany would house migrants whose asylum applications have already been accepted and had been on Lesbos.

An interior ministry spokesman said a proposal had been made which conservative members of parliament would discuss later on Tuesday, and sources in their Social Democrat coalition partners later said they had agreed to the plan.

Greece has long been burdened by the number of migrants arriving by sea, and there are around 30,000 refugees and migrants on the Greek islands.

The issue of migration continues to divide the EU, which has failed to craft a common asylum policy five years after Merkel opened Germany's doors to 1.2 million people seeking protection.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/did-refugees-set-moria-camp-ablaze-over-covid-19-quarantine-greek-minister-thinks-so-326698" hreflang="en">Did refugees set Moria camp ablaze over COVID-19 quarantine? Greek minister thinks so!</a>

The AfD entered German parliament for the first time two years later, and is the main opposition party.

Newspaper Bild reported that Germany would take 408 families from the Greek islands, most of them parents with children, from Afghanistan, Syria and Iraq, making a total of 1,552 people. They are in addition to the 100-150 children Germany has already agreed to take.

Polls show a majority of Germans favour welcoming migrants who need protection, and she and Interior Minister Horst Seehofer have faced calls from regional and local politicians to ease the burden on Greece by taking in migrants.

Germany wants to take in about 1,500 migrants stranded on Greek islands after a fire destroyed an overcrowded camp, government sources said on Tuesday, in a gesture of solidarity with its fellow European Union member state.

Germany wants to take in about 1,500 migrants stranded on Greek islands after a fire destroyed an overcrowded camp, government sources said on Tuesday, in a gesture of solidarity with its fellow European Union member state. The decision by Chancellor Angela Merkel follows a rise in opinion polls by her conservative party, at the expense of the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party, after what is widely seen as her steady handling of the coronavirus crisis. More than 12,000 people, mostly asylum seekers from Afghanistan, Africa and Syria, were left without shelter, proper sanitation or access to food after a fire destroyed the Moria migrant camp on the island of Lesbos last week. Also read: Teargas fired during migrant protests on Greek island of Lesbos The German government sources told Reuters that Germany would house migrants whose asylum applications have already been accepted and had been on Lesbos. An interior ministry spokesman said a proposal had been made which conservative members of parliament would discuss later on Tuesday, and sources in their Social Democrat coalition partners later said they had agreed to the plan. Greece has long been burdened by the number of migrants arriving by sea, and there are around 30,000 refugees and migrants on the Greek islands. The issue of migration continues to divide the EU, which has failed to craft a common asylum policy five years after Merkel opened Germany's doors to 1.2 million people seeking protection. Also read: Did refugees set Moria camp ablaze over COVID-19 quarantine? Greek minister thinks so! The AfD entered German parliament for the first time two years later, and is the main opposition party. Newspaper Bild reported that Germany would take 408 families from the Greek islands, most of them parents with children, from Afghanistan, Syria and Iraq, making a total of 1,552 people. They are in addition to the 100-150 children Germany has already agreed to take. Polls show a majority of Germans favour welcoming migrants who need protection, and she and Interior Minister Horst Seehofer have faced calls from regional and local politicians to ease the burden on Greece by taking in migrants.

Germany to take in about 1,500 migrants from Greek islands

Greece: Thousands of migrants become homeless after fire destroys Europe's largest camp

The Greek government has welcomed a Turkish survey vessel's return to port from a disputed area of the eastern Mediterranean that has been at the heart of a summer stand-off between Greece and Turkey over energy rights.

Turkish survey vessel returns to port: Greece welcomes return of vessel

Greece will boost its armed forces through the purchase of 18 Dassault-made Rafale fighter jets and four frigates and will hire 15,000 army personnel over the next five years.

Greece-Turkey conflict: Greece boosts its defence powers | Will buy 18 Rafale jets from France

Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis on Saturday announced a "robust" arms purchase programme and an overhaul of the country's military amid tension with Turkey in the eastern Mediterranean.

"The time has come to reinforce the armed forces... these initiatives constitute a robust programme that will become a national shield," the PM said in a keynote address in the northern city of Thessaloniki.

Mitsotakis said Greece would acquire 18 French-made Rafale warplanes, four multi-purpose frigates and four navy helicopters, while also recruiting 15,000 new troops and pouring resources into the national arms industry and cyber-attack defence.

New anti-tank weapons, navy torpedoes and airforce missiles will be secured, the PM said.

The programme, which includes upgrades of another existing four frigates, is also designed to create thousands of jobs, he said.

More details on the cost of the programme and origin of the weapons purchases will be announced at a news conference Sunday, a government source told AFP.

Mitsotakis is believed to have hammered out the programme after talks with French President Emmanuel Macron during a southern European leaders summit in Corsica this week.

In contrast to other EU and NATO allies, France has strongly backed Greece in its burgeoning showdown with Turkey, as well as Cyprus.

Macron has told Turkish counterpart Recep Tayyip Erdogan not to cross "red lines" and has sent warships and fighter jets to the region.

Turkey in August sent an exploration ship and a small navy flotilla to conduct seismic research in waters which Greece considers its own under postwar treaties.

Greece responded by shadowing the Turkish flotilla with its own warships, and by staging naval exercises with several EU allies and the United Arab Emirates in its own show of force.

Turkey "threatens" Europe's eastern border and "undermines" regional security, Mitsotakis said Saturday.

Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis on Saturday announced a "robust" arms purchase programme and an overhaul of the country's military amid tension with Turkey in the eastern Mediterranean.

Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis on Saturday announced a "robust" arms purchase programme and an overhaul of the country's military amid tension with Turkey in the eastern Mediterranean. "The time has come to reinforce the armed forces... these initiatives constitute a robust programme that will become a national shield," the PM said in a keynote address in the northern city of Thessaloniki. Mitsotakis said Greece would acquire 18 French-made Rafale warplanes, four multi-purpose frigates and four navy helicopters, while also recruiting 15,000 new troops and pouring resources into the national arms industry and cyber-attack defence. New anti-tank weapons, navy torpedoes and airforce missiles will be secured, the PM said. The programme, which includes upgrades of another existing four frigates, is also designed to create thousands of jobs, he said. More details on the cost of the programme and origin of the weapons purchases will be announced at a news conference Sunday, a government source told AFP. Mitsotakis is believed to have hammered out the programme after talks with French President Emmanuel Macron during a southern European leaders summit in Corsica this week. In contrast to other EU and NATO allies, France has strongly backed Greece in its burgeoning showdown with Turkey, as well as Cyprus. Macron has told Turkish counterpart Recep Tayyip Erdogan not to cross "red lines" and has sent warships and fighter jets to the region. Turkey in August sent an exploration ship and a small navy flotilla to conduct seismic research in waters which Greece considers its own under postwar treaties. Greece responded by shadowing the Turkish flotilla with its own warships, and by staging naval exercises with several EU allies and the United Arab Emirates in its own show of force. Turkey "threatens" Europe's eastern border and "undermines" regional security, Mitsotakis said Saturday.

Greek PM announces arms purchases amid Turkey tension

Greek riot police fired tear gas at protesting asylum seekers on Lesbos island on Saturday.&nbsp;

Clashes occurred on Saturday near a new temporary camp built by Greek authorities where hundreds of young men gathered to protest, some throwing stones at riot police who responded with tear gas.

Tensions have been simmering following the catastrophic fire that ripped through Europe's largest migrant camp this week. And asylum seekers have been sleeping rough on Lesbos since Wednesday when the Moria camp was destroyed in apparent arson attacks.

A fire set there earlier in the day near a police blockade had to be extinguished by the fire brigade.

"Freedom!" said one handwritten sign held up by a protester. "We want to leave Moria," said another.

Some people suffering from respiratory problems because of the tear gas were taken away in ambulances, according to the migrants.

Round-the-clock efforts to find temporary shelter for over 11,000 people made homeless by the destruction of the Moria camp were still inadequate.

The Moria camp, which had been regularly criticised by the UN and rights groups for overcrowding and its dismal sanitary conditions, burned down in successive fires on Tuesday night and Wednesday.

Officials have blamed migrants for the blazes, the first breaking out shortly after 35 people tested positive for coronavirus and were facing isolation measures.

Many of the mostly Afghan asylum seekers have spent months in desperate conditions on the island, hoping in vain to be allowed to cross tightly shut European borders. Local volunteer groups have faced difficulty in supplying asylum seekers with food and water.

(with inputs from AFP)

Greek riot police fired tear gas at protesting asylum seekers on Lesbos island on Saturday. Clashes occurred on Saturday near a new temporary camp built by Greek authorities where hundreds of young men gathered to protest, some throwing stones at riot police who responded with tear gas.

Greek riot police fired tear gas at protesting asylum seekers on Lesbos island on Saturday. Clashes occurred on Saturday near a new temporary camp built by Greek authorities where hundreds of young men gathered to protest, some throwing stones at riot police who responded with tear gas. Tensions have been simmering following the catastrophic fire that ripped through Europe's largest migrant camp this week. And asylum seekers have been sleeping rough on Lesbos since Wednesday when the Moria camp was destroyed in apparent arson attacks. A fire set there earlier in the day near a police blockade had to be extinguished by the fire brigade. "Freedom!" said one handwritten sign held up by a protester. "We want to leave Moria," said another. Some people suffering from respiratory problems because of the tear gas were taken away in ambulances, according to the migrants. Round-the-clock efforts to find temporary shelter for over 11,000 people made homeless by the destruction of the Moria camp were still inadequate. The Moria camp, which had been regularly criticised by the UN and rights groups for overcrowding and its dismal sanitary conditions, burned down in successive fires on Tuesday night and Wednesday. Officials have blamed migrants for the blazes, the first breaking out shortly after 35 people tested positive for coronavirus and were facing isolation measures. Many of the mostly Afghan asylum seekers have spent months in desperate conditions on the island, hoping in vain to be allowed to cross tightly shut European borders. Local volunteer groups have faced difficulty in supplying asylum seekers with food and water. (with inputs from AFP)

Teargas fired during migrant protests on Greek island of Lesbos

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