Athens, Aug 25: Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s arrival in Greece on Friday marked a significant milestone, as he became the first Indian premier to visit the country in 40 years. The purpose of this daylong visit was to engage in discussions with Greece’s top leadership and bolster the bilateral relationship between the two nations.
Having concluded his participation in the 15th BRICS Summit in South Africa, where he held constructive bilateral meetings with various global leaders to fortify India’s international relations, Modi made his way to the historic city of Athens. He was warmly received at the airport by Greece’s Foreign Minister, George Gerapetritis, as highlighted in a statement by Arindam Bagchi, the spokesperson for the Ministry of External Affairs.
The visit was extended as an invitation from Greece’s Prime Minister, Kyriakos Mitsotakis. During his time in Greece, Prime Minister Modi engaged in talks with Prime Minister Mitsotakis, focusing on strategies to further deepen their countries’ ties. Additionally, a meeting with President Katerina Sakellaropoulou was on the agenda.
The day’s schedule included a wreath-laying ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and interactions with business leaders from both nations. Prime Minister Modi also took the opportunity to meet with the Indian community in Greece, a gathering filled with enthusiasm, as they celebrated his presence with chants of “Modi ji ki jai” and joyful Bollywood dance performances.
Reflecting on the occasion, Modi stated, “I have the honour to be the first Indian Prime Minister to visit Greece after 40 years.” Notably, the last significant visit to Greece was in September 1983 when then-Prime Minister Indira Gandhi made the journey.
The relationship between India and Greece is rooted in deep historical connections and has gained momentum in recent years, particularly in areas such as maritime transport, defense, trade and investments, and people-to-people exchanges. As Modi’s visit aimed to strengthen these bonds, he acknowledged the growing potential for robust ties between the two countries.
