Is India the Key? Greek Premier Calls for International Cooperation Amidst Crisis

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Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis has called upon India to take a proactive role in fostering international partnerships to address the unprecedented challenges posed by conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East, alongside the evolving issues of climate change and energy security.

Following discussions with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New Delhi on Wednesday, Mitsotakis emphasized the significance of India as a key stabilizing force in the Indo-Pacific region. He underscored the importance of India’s role in shaping Europe’s foreign policy, particularly from the perspective of Greece.

Expressing concerns over the devastating toll on civilians in conflicts such as the war in Gaza and the ongoing crisis in Ukraine, Mitsotakis stressed the need for collective action to ensure sustainable de-escalation and preserve international stability.

Highlighting India’s influential voice on the global stage, Mitsotakis affirmed the country’s pivotal role in addressing pressing geopolitical challenges, emphasizing the importance of India’s active engagement in international affairs.

While India maintains close ties with Russia, it has refrained from openly condemning Moscow’s actions in Ukraine. However, Mitsotakis’s visit and discussions signal a broader effort to enhance cooperation between India and Greece across various sectors.

Modi echoed Mitsotakis’s sentiments, emphasizing the shared commitment of India and Greece to strengthen bilateral relations in defense, pharmaceuticals, space, and shipping industries. Both leaders expressed the ambition to double bilateral trade by 2030, building upon the existing foundation of nearly $2 billion in trade during the fiscal year 2022-23.

The establishment of a working group to collaborate on cybersecurity, counterterrorism, and maritime security reflects the mutual commitment of India and Greece to address shared security challenges effectively.

Furthermore, Modi highlighted emerging opportunities in India’s defense manufacturing sector, inviting Greek investment and collaboration in this critical area. While specific details were not disclosed, both countries expressed eagerness to explore avenues for cooperation in defense-related industries.

During his visit, Mitsotakis is scheduled to visit Mumbai, India’s economic and cultural center, accompanied by a sizable business delegation. The focus will be on exploring opportunities for investment and collaboration in renewable energy, infrastructure, ports, and shipping.

India’s exports to Greece primarily consist of aluminum, organic chemicals, and iron and steel, while Greece exports minerals, mineral oils, aluminum foil, electrical machinery, equipment, and building stones to India.

The discussions between Mitsotakis and Modi underscore the growing importance of strategic partnerships in addressing complex global challenges. As geopolitical dynamics continue to evolve, collaboration between nations like India and Greece plays a crucial role in shaping a more secure and prosperous future for the international community.

As reported by APnews in their recent article