India and Greece Unite on Maritime Security: Open Sea Trade Routes and Defence Collaboration Top Priority
Manish Shukla
In a significant move to bolster Indo-Greek defence relations, Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi, Chief of Naval Staff (CNS), embarked on a landmark visit to Greece from September 26, 2024. This maiden visit by an Indian Navy CNS to Greece marked a major milestone in strengthening bilateral defence cooperation.
Admiral Tripathi was accorded a ceremonial Guard of Honour by Vice Admiral Dimitrios E Kataras, Chief of the Hellenic Navy General Staff, upon arrival at the Papagos Camp in Athens. This warm welcome set the tone for productive discussions and reinforced the growing partnership between the two nations.
Indian Navy Chief With Chief of the Hellenic Navy General Staff
Admiral Tripathi and Vice Admiral Kataras engaged in comprehensive talks, focusing on augmenting operational interactions, maritime security cooperation, and streamlining shared goals for a stable and secure maritime environment. They explored avenues for strengthening training cooperation, enhancing interoperability and capacity-building, collaborating on strategic naval opportunities, and advancing defence industry partnerships.
Admiral Tripathi also met with Ioannis Kefalogiannis, Deputy Minister of Defence, Greece, and Vice Admiral Christos Sasiakos, Deputy Chief of the Hellenic National Defence General Staff. These meetings underscored the critical importance of open sea trade routes and laid the groundwork for advancing Indo-Greek defence collaboration.
The discussions highlighted the convergence of Indian and Greek interests in ensuring maritime security in the Mediterranean and Indian Ocean Region (IOR), countering piracy and terrorism, promoting regional stability and cooperation, and exploring defence industry opportunities.
Admiral Tripathi’s visit demonstrates India’s commitment to strengthening defence ties with Greece, a key partner in the European Union. As India pursues its ‘Act East’ policy, Greece offers a strategic gateway to the Mediterranean and Europe.
The Indian Navy Chief’s historic visit to Greece marks a significant step forward in Indo-Greek defence cooperation. By fostering stronger naval ties and collaborative initiatives, both nations can enhance regional security, promote economic growth, and strengthen their strategic partnership.
Image Credits: Indian Navy
