Indian PM plans Greece visit later this month to expand strategic presence in Mediterranean

Eyeing to expand strategic footprints in the Mediterranean region Prime Minister Narendra Modi is expected visit to Greece later this month along with South Africa for the BRICS Summit

The last Indian Prime Minister to visit Greece was former PM Indira Gandhi back in 1983.

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar’s visit to Greece in 2021 laid the groundwork for heightened engagement, highlighted by the unveiling of a statue of Mahatma Gandhi in Athens. During that visit a Framework Agreement on the International Solar Alliance was signed, reflecting both nations’ commitment to sustainable development. This agreement was subsequently ratified by the Greek Parliament in March 2022.


Bilateral defence cooperation has also been increasing. The Indian Air Force’s participation in the INIOCHOS-23 multinational air exercise hosted by the Hellenic Air Force showcased a burgeoning partnership. Similarly, the Indian Navy’s INS Chennai conducted a Passage Exercise with the Hellenic Naval Ship Nikiforos Fokas during a visit to Souda Bay, Crete. As a reciprocating gesture, Greece’s air force has been invited to join Indian air force exercises in September.

Greece has consistently supported India’s position on Kashmir. Greece has also supported India during on international agreements like the NSG, MTCR, WASSENAAR arrangements, and Australia Group.