In a thought-provoking and insightful address during his visit to India, Giorgos Gerapetritis, Foreign Affairs Minister of Greece, highlighted the complexities of contemporary global politics and the urgent need for meaningful international dialogue. Speaking at an interactive session hosted by the Observer Research Foundation (ORF) in New Delhi, Minister Gerapetritis highlighted the critical importance of diplomacy, cooperation, and open exchange of ideas in fostering peace and prosperity.
“We live in challenging times,” the Minister remarked, emphasising that diplomacy today must go beyond merely delivering opinions. “What we often lack in contemporary politics is the element of thoughtful deliberation and constructive exchange. All too often, we cling tightly to rigid positions, becoming overly opinionated without engaging in reflective dialogue that fosters understanding.”
He cautioned against the dangers of extreme and divisive stances, stating that such rigidity undermines international cooperation. “Instead of building bridges, we sometimes dismantle the vital channels of communication that are essential for peace and prosperity,” he noted, calling sustained dialogue the “cornerstone of effective diplomacy and conflict resolution.”
Reflecting on Greece’s recent election to the United Nations Security Council for a two-year term starting January 1, 2025, Minister Gerapetritis shared candid insights about the challenges ahead. “Had I known just how turbulent the global landscape would become, I might have reconsidered campaigning for this position,” he admitted with a touch of humour. “We campaigned extensively for this seat, but the reality today is far more complex and demanding than I could have anticipated.”
He acknowledged the immense responsibility of serving on the Security Council amid rising geopolitical tensions. “Serving as Foreign Affairs Minister during such turbulent times is already a significant challenge. Being a minister while also representing your country on the Security Council compounds the difficulties manifold,” he said.
Minister Gerapetritis addressed ongoing crises in the Middle East, highlighting the fragility of ceasefire agreements in Lebanon and Gaza. “While these are steps in the right direction, they are only the beginning of a long and arduous journey toward achieving lasting peace in these regions,” he stressed.
He pointed to unresolved issues such as security arrangements, governance in Gaza, and the post-conflict roadmap as significant obstacles to peace. “We all agree on the need for a two-state solution, including the establishment of an independent Palestinian state. However, despite this consensus on the end goal, we remain divided on how to get there,” he observed.
The Minister also highlighted the emergence of a new American administration as a development with far-reaching implications. “We are still exploring what this transition means for international affairs, but it is clear that significant changes lie ahead. These changes will likely reshape global perceptions and diplomatic dynamics,” he said.
In this context, Minister Gerapetritis stressed the need for like-minded states and individuals to come together to address global challenges. “The need to solidify partnerships with like-minded nations has never been more urgent,” he stated.
A recurring theme in the Minister’s speech was the difficulty in achieving consensus within international institutions. “The primary challenge facing the international security architecture is not our inability to solve complex problems but rather our failure to find common ground even on relatively straightforward issues,” he lamented.
He recounted recent deliberations at the Security Council as “both frustrating and disheartening.” According to him, the lack of a unified international understanding continues to hinder the resolution of conflicts.
Despite acknowledging the daunting challenges, Minister Gerapetritis expressed optimism about the path forward. “The road ahead is undoubtedly fraught with challenges, but it is also filled with opportunities,” he remarked. “By fostering open dialogue, strengthening international cooperation, and maintaining a commitment to peace, we can work toward a more stable and prosperous world.”
“Together, we can explore pathways to address the pressing challenges of our time and build a future defined by peace, cooperation, and mutual understanding,” he affirmed.
As nations continue to grapple with regional conflicts, shifting geopolitical alliances, and evolving global challenges, the Greek Foreign Minister’s call for deliberation, cooperation, and sustained dialogue serves as a timely reminder of the essential role diplomacy plays in shaping a more peaceful and interconnected world.
Minister Gerapetritis also provided insights into his discussions with India’s External Affairs Minister, Dr. S. Jaishankar. They conducted a comprehensive review of bilateral ties, assessing the progress of various initiatives under the strategic partnership framework since Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s Official Visit to Greece in August 2023 and the State Visit of Prime Minister H.E. Mr. Kyriakos Mitsotakis to India in February 2024.
Both leaders reiterated their respective Prime Ministers’ commitment to strengthening the strategic partnership by fostering a robust economic relationship. They aim to double bilateral trade by 2030. They highlighted the importance of institutional mechanisms like the Joint Economic Committee for effectively advancing trade and investment cooperation.
Discussions also covered regional and global developments, particularly in the Indo-Pacific and East Mediterranean regions. They stressed the potential of the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor to enhance connectivity and foster economic growth.
The ministers acknowledged the economic advantages of fostering regular workforce mobility between the two nations and agreed to expedite the conclusion of the Migration and Mobility Partnership Agreement.
Both leaders noted the significance of 2025 as the 75th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between India and Greece. To commemorate this milestone, a series of cultural events are planned in New Delhi and Athens, celebrating the rich and enduring ties between the two countries.
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