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Source: The post is based on the article “Old ties: India and Greece are finding new ways to revive an age-old relationship” published in “The Hindu” on 29th August 2023.
Syllabus: GS2- International relations – Bilateral, regional and global groupings and agreements involving India and/or affecting India’s interests
News: The article talks about a meeting between Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Greece’s Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis. They wanted to make India-Greece relations stronger by starting a “Strategic Partnership,” improving trade, and talking about shared worries like sea security and getting back historical items.
What are the outcomes of the India-Greece Prime Minister meeting?
Strengthened Relations: Despite no Indian PM visiting Greece since 1983, the relationship remains warm.
Strategic Partnership: India and Greece decided to establish a new “Strategic Partnership”. Both countries announced plans for discussions between their National Security Advisers.
Migration and Mobility: They are looking into a skilled migration and mobility partnership.
Trade and Connectivity: They aim to finalize the India-European Union Free Trade Negotiation on Connectivity partnership.
Economic Aspirations: India’s PM wants India’s manufacturing growth to align with Greece’s goal to be an economic gateway to the EU.
Future Cooperation: The intent is to foster closer ties without long gaps in high-level meetings.
What common ground exists between India and Greece?
Common ground between India and Greece:
Historical Relations: Both countries share a past connection with Alexander’s invasion in 326 BCE.
Restoration of Artefacts: Both were plundered by colonial powers and are discussing the restoration of historical items. They’re considering collaborating through UNESCO for this.
Geopolitical Ties: Greece’s relations with Israel and Cyprus provide common ground, especially given Delhi-Ankara tensions.
Maritime Concerns: As former maritime powers, both nations share concerns over maintaining maritime security in line with international laws.
Shared Democratic Values: They represent the most populous democracy (India) and the first democracy (Greece), seeking to build upon these shared values.
