Prime Minister of Greece Kyriakos Mitsotakis says that "Indian businesses are beginning to see Greece as an important gateway to Europe" and speaks of common views on full respect for International Law of the Sea in his recent article published in the 'Times of India' newspaper.
"Greece and India are linked by historical ties of friendship dating back thousands of years. As ancient civilisations, our peoples interacted and influenced each other in a wide range of fields," Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis points out in an article in the "Times of India" newspaper ahead of today's (Friday) visit by his counterpart Narendra Modi to Athens, an excerpt of which lies below.
It is of particular importance that elements of our cultures were intertwined and remain alive to this day, not only in our two countries, but also in the wider regions of Europe, Asia and Africa.
Greece, as it is located at the crossroads of three continents, and as a member state of the EU and NATO, is in an ideal position to be India's gateway to Europe. Today, our two countries share common democratic values and a firm commitment to International Law, including the Law of the Sea. We also agree on the need to protect the rules-based international order and promote global peace, stability and development.
Therefore, given the challenges of a rapidly changing world, India and Greece, as maritime nations with steadfast values and a rich history, are best placed to work together for a better future.
Our bilateral relations are today stronger than ever. In recent years, our countries have demonstrated a sincere commitment to promoting cooperation in areas of common interest, for mutual benefit but also for the benefit of our wider regions. Prime Minister Modi's upcoming visit to Greece, the first since Indira Gandhi's visit 40 years ago, is an important milestone in our growing relationship. Proof positive, if one were needed, of consolidating our strategic partnership and deepening our cooperation in critical areas, from defense and agriculture, to tourism and culture.
As historically maritime nations, we have long shared common views on the importance of ensuring freedom of navigation, maritime security and full respect for the International Law of the Sea.Of course, we have already achieved a lot. On defense, the Indian Air Force and Navy recently participated in a joint exercise with the Hellenic Armed Forces, while the Hellenic Air Force and Navy will soon be in the Indo-Pacific, enhancing the ability to keep the sea lanes peaceful, open and without exclusions.
As historically maritime nations, we have long shared common views on the importance of ensuring freedom of navigation, maritime security and full respect for the International Law of the Sea, in particular the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), which we have both signed.
In the field of economic cooperation, we increased our trade to 1.32 billion euros in 2022, which is a record. Indian businesses are beginning to see Greece as an important gateway to Europe. GMR is already in Greece, building the new international airport in Crete. I would encourage other Indian businesses to follow her example, to look for new opportunities in ports, airports, technology, logistics hubs, infrastructure, energy and renewables, highlighted in the National Plan "Greece 2.0". Greek businesses are already looking for opportunities in India in various sectors, including food, pharmaceuticals, shipping.
Another essential element of our friendship is the importance our two countries attach to strengthening EU-India relations. India and the EU are global players who share common values and goals. Therefore, I believe it is in our common interest to seek to further strengthen our cooperation, especially on regional and global issues. As important trading partners, the successful conclusion of an EU-India Free Trade Agreement would be an important step in advancing these relations.
Last but not least, I invite Indians to come to Greece! My country is not only sun and sea, beautiful beaches and idyllic islands. I encourage you to come and discover a wide range of amazing year-round destinations across the country. Destinations that are enriched with ancient history, unique culture and stunning natural beauty.
As we welcome Prime Minister Modi to Greece to inaugurate our strategic partnership, I am convinced that after more than 2,500 years of interaction and exchange, the best is yet to come in Greece-India relations. Finding common ground in our common future will be an advantage for both our countries. And most importantly, it can - it will be a legacy that will benefit the entire world.
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