India & Greece discuss greater cooperation in trade, defence

Greater cooperation in the areas of trade and defence was among the issues on the agenda when India and Greece held the 13th Foreign Office Consultations in Athens on Wednesday (June 14, 2023).

During the consultations, both sides undertook a comprehensive review of all aspects of their bilateral relations.

"The delegations discussed enhancing cooperation in a number of areas, including Trade, Defence, Culture, People-to-People ties, and Consular issues, including Mobility," the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA).

Both sides appreciated that bilateral trade has been increasing at a steady pace, and agreed to diversify into new areas. The importance of regular bilateral political exchanges in further strengthening ties between the two countries was also emphasized.

During the FOC, India and Greece also exchanged views on regional and multilateral issues of mutual interest, including the Ukraine conflict, India’s Presidency of G20, cooperation in multilateral fora, UNSC reforms, and developments in their respective neighbourhoods.

The FOC was co-chaired by Secretary (West), Ministry of External Affairs Sanjay Verma and Secretary General, Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Greece Ambassador Haris Lalacos.

"The Foreign Office Consultations are expected to impart further momentum to bilateral ties," the MEAsaid, adding that it was agreed to hold the next session, on a mutually convenient date, in New Delhi in 2024.