Greece and Israel Political RelationsPolitical Relations
The deepening of Greek-Israeli relations is based on the major potential for mutually beneficial cooperation in a number of sectors, including economy, trade, tourism, investments, agricultural development, defence, technology, energy, environment, shipping and education.
The manifold cooperation between the two countries is aimed at promoting development and stability in the Eastern Mediterranean. This cooperation does not exclude, and is not directed against any third party, while it is dictated by the multiple security challenges in the region.
The Joint Ministerial Cooperation Council agreed upon in 2011 is the institutional framework for cooperation between the two sides and is aimed at promoting specific cooperation programmes. Its most recent meeting took place on 15 June 2017 in Thessaloniki. The President of the State of Israel, Mr. Rueven Rivlin, paid a state visit to Greece on 29-30 January 2018. Τhe most recent visit was that of the Greek Minister of Foreign Affairs Mr Dendias in Israel on 28.7.2019.
Regular political consultations take place between the two Ministries of Foreign Affairs.
Greece looks forward to the development of energy cooperation with Israel, both bilaterally and trilaterally, with the inclusion of Cyprus.
In the trilateral context, the three countries have expressed theirreadiness to develop their cooperation at all levels. The most recent 6th Trilateral Summit, on 20.3.2019, with the participation of the US Secretary of State Pompeo, reaffirmed the political will of all parties on the implementation of the project regarding the natural gas pipeline EastMed.
A major development in Greek-Israeli bilateral relations was Greece’s decision pertaining to Law 4018/30.9.2011 which allows Holocaust survivors and their descendants to regain the Greek citizenship. This is a gesture of great sentimental and symbolic value.
Finally, special note should be made of the Greek state’s unflagging interest in the Patriarchate of Jerusalem, which is the living link between the Orthodox Christianity and the Holy Land.
