Athens is hosting a historic two-day conference commemorating 50 years of Greek foreign policy since the restoration of democracy in 1974.
Titled “Metapolitefsi 1974–2024: 50 Years of Greek Foreign Policy”, the event was organised by To Vima newspaper, the Council for International Relations, and the Delphi Economic Forum. The conference marked the milestone of "Metapolitefsi," a transformative era in Greece’s modern history, signifying its transition from military dictatorship to democracy.
President Sakellaropoulou Opens the Dialogue
President Katerina Sakellaropoulou inaugurated the event, reflecting on Greece’s strides toward stability and global engagement since 1974. She highlighted the unresolved Cyprus issue as a poignant reminder of the challenges in Greek diplomacy.
“The illegal Turkish invasion and occupation of Cyprus is a painful reminder of our responsibility for a solution based on United Nations resolutions,” Sakellaropoulou said, calling the post-1974 period one of “unprecedented normality” and consolidation of Greece’s position among Europe’s advanced nations.
Foreign Minister Gerapetritis Defends Diplomatic Engagement
Foreign Minister George Gerapetritis underscored Greece’s growing international role, advocating dialogue as an essential tool for resolving disputes, particularly with Turkey. Addressing criticism of his approach, Gerapetritis emphasised, “Dialogue is not a pretext but a means to a solution. It allows us to take a major step forward.”
Gerapetritis also noted improved Greek-Turkish ties as critical in addressing issues like migrant smuggling. He acknowledged the broader impact of Middle Eastern developments on Greece’s geopolitical strategy and the Cyprus issue.
Former Leaders Weigh In
Former Prime Minister George Papandreou praised past milestones like the Prespa Agreement, which resolved the Macedonia naming dispute, and called for Greece to lead as a "beacon of civilization" in a world facing existential challenges.
Conversely, former Prime Minister Antonis Samaras sharply criticized current foreign policy, accusing the government of undermining Greece’s deterrence capabilities and compromising its sovereignty. Samaras reiterated his opposition to Turkish rapprochement, stating, “Calm waters remained calm because they provoked us, and we looked elsewhere.”
Former Foreign Minister Evangelos Venizelos advocated for a steady, historically informed foreign policy, calling the Metapolitefsi era a “success story” while stressing the importance of a democratic mandate in foreign affairs.
Key Moments and Upcoming Discussions
A heated exchange between Foreign Minister Gerapetritis and former Foreign Minister Nikos Kotzias, with Evangelos Venizelos also participating, was a standout moment of the conference. Their debate covered Greek-Turkish relations, the Cyprus problem, and the Middle East, showcasing the complexity of Greece’s diplomatic challenges.
The second day of the conference will feature addresses by Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis, former Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras, PASOK President Nikos Androulakis, and Defense Minister Nikos Dendias, among others, promising further insights into Greece’s foreign policy trajectory.
(Source: To Vima)