India and Greece enjoy close relations which have been strengthened by the shared values of democracy, rule of law and pluralism…reports Asian Lite News
India and Greece have agreed to work towards the establishment of strategic partnership between them. This decision was taken during EAM S Jaishankar’s three-day (June 25 to 27) visit to Greece, the first by an Indian Foreign Minister in the last 17 years. The two countries agreed to further consolidate the bilateral relations between them.
Visiting Athens at the invitation of Greek Foreign Minister Nikos Dendias, EAM Jaishankar had a comprehensive exchange of views with his Greek counterpart on the ongoing cooperation in several areas such as, trade and investment, science and technology, culture, academics and people-to-people contact.
During the meeting, it was also agreed that the next round of Foreign Office Consultations and Joint Trade Committee would be held soon.
Jaishankar also paid a courtesy call on Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis.
In the course of the meeting, he conveyed felicitations of President Ram Nath Kovind Prime Minister Narendra Modi to the government and the people of Greece on the 200th anniversary of Greek independence.
The EAM also unveiled the statue of Mahatma Gandhi in Athens on June 26, 2021.
The statue will act as a strong symbol of friendship between the two countries, the EAM said while unveiling the statue.
India and Greece enjoy close and friendly relations which have been strengthened by the shared values of democracy, rule of law, pluralism, equality, freedom of speech and respect for human rights.
ALSO READ: Indian envoy to UN co-hosts special event on 2030 agenda
During the EAM’s visit, the Greek Foreign Minister signed and handed over the Agreement on the International Solar Alliance (ISA) to the Indian side.
Jaishankar welcomed Greece to the family of the ISA. Both sides agreed that this will assist the two countries in realisation of the energy goals set by the respective governments to make renewable energy a significant part of the energy supply.
Also Read
In the globalized world, both sides noted the importance of movement of people in an orderly and legal way and agreed to work towards and signing an agreement on migration and mobility.
Considering their rich ancient past, the two sides agreed to continue their relationship in the field of culture. Both sides reiterated the importance of signing the Cultural Exchange Programme for the period 2021-2025 at an early date.
Both sides also shared views on regional and global issues of mutual interest in the context of new geo-political and geo-economic realities, including the Indo-Pacific. Both sides noted with satisfaction the convergence of each-others’ vision for a free, open, inclusive and cooperative Indo-Pacific ensuring connectivity and growth for all in the region.
Both sides discussed the recent developments pertaining to the Eastern Mediterranean, Cyprus and Libya.
Both sides agreed that the rule of law and respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity are fundamental principles of international relations that must be observed by all.
India and Greece recognised the threat posed by radicalization, violent extremism, as well as terrorism, including cross border terrorism.
They emphasized that there can be no justification for these in any form or manifestation.
Both sides conveyed their deep commitment to multilateralism, and a rules-based international order. They reaffirmed the importance of the urgent reform of the UN, including UNSC expansion, and other multilateral institutions so as to make them more inclusive, transparent, accountable, and better reflective of contemporary geopolitical realities.
Greek side reiterated its support for permanent membership of India in a reformed UNSC.
India and Greece also discussed the Covid-19 situation globally and the process of economic recovery. They agreed on the need for joint efforts to combat the disease and to work together for consolidating economic and commercial activities during and immediately after the pandemic.
The Indian side expressed gratitude for the warm hospitality extended to them by the Greek side. The Indian side extended an invitation to Foreign Minister of Greece to visit India at a mutually convenient date. (INN)
ALSO READ: At UN, India bats for ‘independent, democratic’ state of Palestine
[soliloquy id="151345"]