India, Greece strengthen ties during Modi-Mitsotakis meeting

NEW DELHI: India and Greece engaged in discussions on Wednesday at Raisina Dialogue 2024 highlighting the potential of the India-Middle East-Europe corridor.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Greek counterpart Kyriakos Mitsotakis held detailed talks, promising cooperation in various areas, with a key focus on the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC).

PM Modi emphasised the significance of IMEC, stating, “The IMEC corridor will contribute significantly to the long-term development of humanity.” The IMEC, initiated during India’s G-20 chairmanship, aims to enhance connectivity between India, the Gulf, and Europe.

Meanwhile Mitsotakis said, “Through the IMEC, we see our participation as a very important aspect of this strategic partnership. But of course, as we discussed, in order to achieve this, we need peace in the Middle East and stability is the necessary condition for every project.”

Greece is considered to be be a key player in the India Middle East Europe Economic Corridor (IMEEC), which will help facilitate export of Indian goods to European markets.

Greece’s strategic location in the Mediterranean Sea positions it as a crucial player in the IMEC. Foreign Secretary Vinay Kwatra highlighted the broader discussions, emphasising the importance of stronger connectivity between India and Greece, including the development of port infrastructure.

PM Modi welcomed Greece’s active participation in the Indo-Pacific region and stressed the need for resolving disputes through dialogue and diplomacy.

The leaders discussed expanding cooperation across various sectors such as defence, security, pharmaceuticals, medical devices, technology, innovation, and space. They also explored opportunities for collaboration in skill development, start-ups, shipping, and connectivity.

Mitsotakis’s visit marks a significant milestone in India-Greece relations, elevating them to a ‘Strategic Partnership’ during PM Modi’s visit to Greece in August 2023.

Both nations aim to strengthen military ties through co-production and co-development initiatives and are committed to addressing mobility and migration challenges.