New Delhi: India-Greece defence ties received a fresh boost as senior officials from both countries discussed ways to expand Air Force cooperation, increase military engagement, and strengthen strategic relations. The latest meetings highlighted the growing defence partnership between New Delhi and Athens, with a strong focus on joint air exercises and long-term collaboration.
India-Greece Defence Ties: India’s Ambassador Meets Hellenic Air Force Chief
India’s Ambassador to Greece, Ravi Shankar, met Lt. Gen. Demosthenes Grigoriadis, Chief of the Hellenic Air Force General Staff. According to the Embassy of India in Greece, both sides reviewed the ongoing cooperation between the Indian Air Force (IAF) and the Hellenic Air Force. They also discussed ways to deepen defence ties through regular exchanges and military engagement.
India-Greece Defence Ties: Joint Air Exercises Strengthen Military Partnership
The discussions highlighted the importance of two major multinational air exercises:
- INIOCHOS, hosted every year by the Hellenic Air Force in Greece.
- Tarang Shakti, the Indian Air Force’s multinational air combat exercise.
India’s participation in INIOCHOS and Greece’s participation in Tarang Shakti have helped improve operational understanding, interoperability, and cooperation between the two Air Forces. According to the Indian Embassy, these exercises have played an important role in building mutual trust and stronger defence relations.
India-Greece Defence Ties: Talks Also Focus on Regional Cooperation
During his visit, Ambassador Ravi Shankar also met Giorgos Choureas, Mayor of the West Mani region. The meeting explored opportunities for cooperation with the West Mani region, especially in workforce development, hospitality, and tourism. Both sides discussed how skilled professionals from India could contribute to the region’s growing economy.
Ambassador Recently Presented Credentials
Earlier this month, Ambassador Ravi Shankar formally presented his Letter of Credence to the President of Greece. He conveyed greetings from the Indian leadership and reaffirmed India’s commitment to giving new momentum to the India-Greece Strategic Partnership.
India and Greece Share Strong Strategic Partnership
According to India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), India and Greece have traditionally enjoyed warm and friendly relations based on shared democratic values and mutual support on international issues.
Defence cooperation has expanded significantly in recent years through military exchanges, joint exercises, and high-level visits. The partnership has also grown in areas such as trade, connectivity, maritime security, and defence industry collaboration.
