26/03/2025
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26/03/2025
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Ambassadors and dignitaries during the Greek Embassy’s Independence Day celebration
Ambassadors Sadiq Marafi and Ioannis Plotas participate in the cakecutting ceremony.
KUWAIT CITY, March 26: Assistant Foreign Minister for European Affairs Ambassador Sadiq Marafi described Kuwaiti-Greek relations as “historic; even older than diplomatic relations,” indicating there have been historic visits to Failaka Island and the Kuwaiti coast. During the Greek Embassy’s Independence Day celebration, Marafi said that Kuwaiti relations with Greece date back more than 60 years. “We look forward to strengthening these relations in the coming years. Last year, we had an important visit by the Greek Foreign Affairs Minister to Kuwait. One of the outcomes of this visit was the strengthening of relations, which will become even stronger in the coming years; especially in the areas of investment and tourism, which are important to Kuwaitis.”
Regarding the latest developments in the agreements concluded between the two countries, he revealed “we are currently discussing new agreements.” He confirmed there is coordination to hold the European-Gulf meeting in Kuwait in October, but the date will be specified once an agreement is reached between Secretariat General of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) and the European Union (EU). On the latest developments about Schengen visa exemption for Kuwaitis, he disclosed “the current advantage we have is the five-year visa. We look forward to discussing this issue at the next summit.” On reciprocal visits between officials from both countries and the European countries, he confirmed that he will conduct several visits to European countries, including visits at the deputy foreign affairs minister level.
Meanwhile, Greek Ambassador to Kuwait Ioannis Plotas affirmed that Kuwait is a key partner for his country in the Gulf region and the Middle East. He stated “I am fully aware of the historical and strategic importance of the relationship between our countries. This partnership is rooted in shared principles, mutual respect, and a shared vision for regional stability and prosperity. These principles, in particular, have further strengthened the already strong and enduring partnership between Greece and Kuwait for more than six decades.”
He added his country considers Kuwait not only an important ally, but also a key strategic partner in the Gulf region and the wider Middle East. He pointed out “the presence of Greeks in the region dates back to ancient times, a prominent example of which is Failaka Island, where Alexander the Great resided. These strong cultural influences reflect the deep cultural roots that bind our countries, which continue to shape our mutual understanding today.
As two maritime nations, Greece and Kuwait share a unique bond; giving us the impetus to explore further and consolidate our strong relationship.” He cited the great potential for Greek companies to actively participate in Kuwait’s massive Vision 2035 project; indicating this ambitious initiative is a unique opportunity to strengthen cooperation, and that Kuwait can benefit from Greece’s expertise in construction, renewable energy and urban development.
On the National Day of Greece, he asserted with pride and honor “the Greek nation once again celebrates its Independence Day on March 25, the date of the outbreak of the Greek Revolution against the Ottoman Empire.” He emphasized that March 25, 1821 marked a new beginning in the historical path of Hellenism. “It was the natural result of our nation’s strong will to regain freedom and independence. Despite occurring at a historical stage that the entire world considered unfavorable, it succeeded because no one realized that our nation, beyond the geopolitical ambitions of the ‘powers’ of the time, possessed an internal strength acquired through thousands of years of struggle and sacrifice,” he concluded.
By Fares Al-Abdan Al-Seyassah/Arab Times Staff
