Foreign Minister Dimitris Avramopoulos has sent a circular to all diplomatic and consular missions requesting the immediate and intensive activation of all personnel at Greek missions abroad in the promotion of Greece’s image, which is of the highest priority in the current state of affairs.
More specifically, the Foreign Minister – having noted his full understanding of the adverse and difficult economic circumstances under which Greek diplomatic personnel and representatives of other Ministries who are stationed abroad are carrying out their duties – asks that targeted public diplomacy actions and interventions be carried out with the aim of improving our country’s public image and promoting Greece round the world.
In addition to “traditional” actions oriented towards official government agencies, The Missions are being called upon to develop activities in the direction of any and all agencies involved in the expression and shaping of public opinion, including international media outlets and think tanks, as well as figures on the international economic stage.
Mr. Avramopoulos notes that at a time when Greece’s standing is often under attack internationally, our foreign policy can open roads to economic development, create an environment of security and cooperation in the region, and contribute to the enhancement of Greece’s international image.
It is equally important that Greece react promptly to inaccurate or disparaging news reports on Greece, because timely responses to such reports will contribute substantially to reversing Greece’s negative image. Rehabilitating Greece’s image is a decisive factor in the efforts to emerge from the present crisis, given that the country’s international image directly impacts markets, prospective investments and the strengthening of tourism.
In an address to Parliament today, Foreign Minister Avramopoulos said the following:
“I would like to inform you that a circular was issued yesterday to all our diplomatic missions round the world, reactivating them in the endeavor to promote our country in every corner of the world. We are aware that the economic state of affairs and our financial obligations have hit at the heart of the Greek diplomatic service, as well. Nevertheless, what is most important at this moment is to again project an image of our country’s standing, and this battle will be fought by the Foreign Ministry, with Greek diplomats on the front lines. […] An internationally oriented Greece is re-emerging, and this will gradually open a new era. In parallel with the effort all of the political forces are making to help Greece find its footing and orientation again in the midst of this broader crisis – a particularly profound and painful crisis for the Greek people – we will again see the Greece of pride and dignity.”
August 2, 2012