Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be making a historic visit to Greece for a one-day visit on Friday, following his participation in the BRICS Summit in South Africa. This visit marks the first by an Indian prime minister to Greece in four decades.
India’s Ambassador to Greece, Rudrendra Tandon, expressed confidence that the prime minister’s visit would give a “new impetus” to the close bilateral relationship between the two countries, particularly in the areas of trade, security, and people-to-people contact.
The last high-level visit to Greece took place in September 1983 when then-Prime Minister Indira Gandhi traveled to the country.
During his visit, Prime Minister Modi’s schedule in Greece includes several key events:
– 6:25 am: Arrival at Athens International Airport
– 10:05 am: Wreath-laying at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and Guard of Honor
– 10:25 am: Ceremonial reception and meeting with Greece President Katerina Sakellaropoulou
– 11:05 am: Ceremonial reception and meeting with Greek Prime Minister
– 12:45 pm: Business lunch hosted by the Greek Prime Minister
– 5:20 pm: Meeting with prominent personalities
– 6:05 pm: Interaction with the Indian community
– 7:25 pm: Departure from Athens
Greece has been a steadfast partner for India, especially during times of international scrutiny. The country stood by India’s side after the 1998 nuclear tests at Pokhran, when several countries imposed sanctions on India. Greece has also been supportive of India’s bid for a permanent seat in the reformed UN Security Council.
India’s Ambassador to Greece, Rudrendra Tandon, emphasized the multidimensional nature of the relationship between India and Greece, stating that while Europe is just one aspect, there are many other convergences between the two countries. Tandon also highlighted that both sides believe a new impetus is needed to deepen the bilateral relationship.
Cross-border terrorism will be an important topic of discussion during the prime minister’s talks with Greek leadership, although it is not the sole focus. Tandon stressed the importance of addressing terrorism as a threat to international peace and security.
Trade, economics, and investments are also key areas of consideration during the visit. A business delegation will accompany Prime Minister Modi, and there will be interactions between Indian and Greek businessmen. The hope is that these conversations will yield positive outcomes and further enhance the practical aspects of the relationship.
With high expectations for a successful visit, both countries are eager to take their bilateral relationship to new heights through fruitful discussions and tangible outcomes.