Athens News Agency (ANA),
Bilateral cooperation in the defence sector dominated discussions here on Thursday between Deputy Defence Minister Vassilis Mihaloliakos and the visiting chief executive of the French arms arms-procurement agency DGA — D?l?gation G?n?rale pour l'Armement — Francois Lureau.
On his part, Lureau praised Athens' initiative for the creation and development of a European Defence Agency, something he said also reflects Paris' vision for a robust and autonomous European defence industry.
Greek and French officials have reportedly begun contacts aimed at signing a memorandum of understanding covering bilateral issues and research programmes. Athens is also set to sign a cooperation agreement for its participation in the development of a European-made unmanned combat aerial vehicle.
According to sources, moreover, the French side will positively respond to a request by Athens for the purchase of additional “Mirage” 2000-5 fighter planes.
