Old ties: India and Greece are finding new ways to revive an age-old relationship

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.