Historic first! India–Greece maritime talks signal bold move in global naval strategy

The meeting was opened with an address by the Greek Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Ambassador Alexandra Papadopoulou.

The Indian delegation was led by Muanpuii Saiawi, Joint Secretary (Disarmament & International Security Affairs), Ministry of External Affairs.

The Greek delegation was led by Ambassador Andreas Fryganas, Political Director and Ambassador Maria Theofili, Head of the Task Force for UNSC, Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

"The two sides exchanged assessments of the maritime environment in the Mediterranean, Arctic and the Indo-Pacific regions," read a statement issued by the Ministry of External Affairs.

They conferred on ways to sustain a secure and safe maritime environment conducive to economic growth and prosperity through bilateral cooperation as well as engagement in multilateral fora.

They explored avenues for cooperation towards enhanced maritime domain awareness, sustainable development of marine economy, humanitarian assistance and disaster relief, Naval collaboration as well improving maritime connectivity with an increased engagement in shipping sectors.

"Both sides expressed willingness to take this relationship further on all fronts in the maritime domain and agreed to hold the next round of talks at a mutually convenient date in New Delhi, on achievement of the agreed deliverables of this historical inaugural dialogue," the statement said.