Source: European Parliament
Priority question for written answer P-001024/2025
to the Commission
Rule 144
Maria Zacharia (NI)
The Greek Parliament has concluded that the Federal Republic of Germany owes Greece EUR 289 billion in World War II reparations and in compensation for material damage, Nazi atrocities, the forced loan exacted from occupied Greece and the return of stolen and looted archaeological treasures.
The Federal Republic of Germany falsely claims that the matter was settled with the Treaty of London (1953), which in fact postponed the settlement, and the 2+4 Agreement (1990), which contained no relevant provision and which Greece neither participated in, signed nor ratified. Therefore, these texts neither settle nor invalidate Greece’s claims.
In light of the fundamental principles and values the EU upholds in relation to the protection of human rights, justice and the rule of law, and given that the failure to resolve this issue is affecting the cohesion and unity of the EU, the disagreement between the two Member States needs to be resolved.
In view of the above, can the Commission answer the following:
- 1.How does it intend to assist and support the start of a dialogue between the two sides, with a view to achieving reconciliation and a peaceful resolution of historic differences?
- 2.What steps does it intend to take to ensure that Member States comply with their international obligations, given that failure to resolve (the) claims constitutes a violation of international agreements supported by the EU itself?
- 3.Does it not agree that the party responsible for the war should pay for the destruction they have caused?
Submitted: 10.3.2025