Khushi Bhuta, Pune
The first Indian prime minister to visit Greece in 40 years, Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived at the Greek capital, Athens, on Friday for a day-long visit to discuss ways to improve bilateral ties. Prime Minister Narendra Modi flew to Athens from South Africa, where he attended the three-day-long 15th BRICS Summit and met with several world leaders.
The primary reason for the visit is an invitation from the Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis to discuss the cementing of the bilateral relations between India and Greece. Also anticipated is a meeting with the Greek President Katerina Sakellaropoulou. The Prime Minister has also planned to speak with business executives from both nations throughout his trip. In addition to that, he is also expected to interact with the Indian community in Greece.
In a statement on Tuesday, Prime Minister Modi stated, “Contacts between our two civilizations stretch back over two millennia. In modern times, our ties have been strengthened by shared values of democracy, rule of law and pluralism.”
Prime Minister Modi paid respects to the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Athens to commence the trip. The paying of respects was followed by a ceremonial guard of honour presented to him. The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, located in Syntagma Square in Athens in front of the Old Royal Palace, memorialises Greek soldiers who lost their lives while serving in various battles.
Relationships between India and Greece have become stronger in recent years due to collaboration in several fields, including maritime transportation, defence, trade and investments, and interpersonal relations.
Greece and India have a history of allyship. Following the Pokhran nuclear tests in 1998, when numerous nations imposed sanctions on India, Greece supported India. India’s bid for permanent membership in the reorganized UN Security Council has also received support from Athens.
The last Prime Ministerial visit to the country from India was in September of 1983 by then-Prime Minister Indira Gandhi.