France and Greece to renew defence pact for another five years

Sunday 19 April 2026 - 11:30

France and Greece are expected to extend their bilateral defence cooperation agreement for another five years during an upcoming visit by French President Emmanuel Macron to Athens, according to a Greek government official.

The agreement, originally signed in 2021, established a framework for mutual assistance in the event of an armed attack and strengthened military cooperation between the two NATO allies. It also included major defence procurements, such as Greek purchases of French-built frigates and Dassault Rafale fighter jets, significantly deepening strategic ties between Paris and Athens.

The renewal comes at a time of heightened geopolitical tensions, particularly linked to instability in the Middle East and concerns over maritime security routes. Discussions during Macron’s visit, scheduled for April 24–25, are expected to focus on extending the pact automatically after the new five-year period and reinforcing long-term defence coordination.

Beyond the bilateral agreement, both sides are also expected to address broader security challenges, including naval safety and the strategic importance of key maritime corridors such as the Strait of Hormuz. The issue has gained urgency amid recent disruptions in shipping flows and regional military tensions.

While Greece participates in European naval operations aimed at protecting commercial shipping routes in the Red Sea, it has remained cautious about direct military involvement in the Strait of Hormuz, highlighting differing strategic approaches within the European Union.

The renewed agreement is seen as part of a wider effort to strengthen European defence cooperation in response to evolving global security risks and shifting regional power dynamics.