Letter: Greece poses no threat in Balkans

Sir: We would like to clarify your article 'Nato adds fuel to Balkans arms race' (21 July). One of the advantages of the CFE (Conventional Forces in Europe) Treaty is that it enables some Nato countries, through the 'Cascade', to modernise their armed forces; namely, by receiving new equipment from the surplus of some other Nato countries (the US, Germany, The Netherlands), as specified by the treaty, with the obligation to destroy a corresponding amount of old equipment. This advantage flows directly from the fundamental principle of the Nato alliance: to strengthen and preserve the security of its member states.

In accordance with the 'Cascade', Greece will receive the following Treaty Limited Equipment (TLEs):

a) MBTs (main battle tanks): 916

b) ACVs (armoured combat vehicles): 1,027

c) ARTY (artillery)/mortars: 505

At the same time, Greece is bound by the treaty to maintain the capacity to destroy - and will destroy - the following:

a) MBTs: 990

b) ARTY/Mortars: 404-504

c) ACVs: 0

All the above is being implemented in order to meet the ceiling quotas of TLEs, which for Greece are:

a) MBTs: 1,735

b) ACVs: 2,534

c) ARTY/Mortars: 1,878

d) Attack helicopters: 70-100

e) Combat aircraft: 650

The allegation that Greece is failing to fulfil its obligation to destroy old weaponry is untrue; nor is it true that Nato is turning the region into a dumping ground for arms, since all the reductions (destructions) are taking place in the presence of inspectors from eastern European countries (former Warsaw Pact members).

Greece has stated its firm position that no Balkan states should be involved in any kind of military operation in the former Yugoslavia. It has also repeatedly stressed that it would only be drawn into armed struggle if attacked and had to defend itself. Furthermore, the Greek armed forces operate as a strictly defensive force, not as a force of aggression and, consequently, the structure of the Greek armed forces is strictly defensive.

I was very concerned to see that your article included a number of views and allegations that were bound to cause a detrimental reaction within Greece. Even implying, as did your reporter, that the government of a Nato country is failing to fulfil her obligations toward the alliance is a very serious business that should not be undertaken lightly.

Sincerely yours,

EVANGELOS ZACHARIS

Hellenic National Defense

General Staff

Athens

24 July