Greece has expressed its full support for India's fight against terrorism during talks held with an all-party delegation led by DMK MP Kanimozhi Karunanidhi. This was conveyed during the delegation's visit to Athens as part of India's broader diplomatic outreach, named "Operation Sindoor," aimed at garnering international support against cross-border terrorism.
The delegation, which included representatives from various political parties such as Rajeev Kumar Rai of SP, Brijesh Chowta of BJP, Prem Chand Gupta of RJD, and Ashok Mittal of AAP, engaged in a "substantive and fruitful dialogue" with Greece's Deputy Foreign Minister Tasos Chatzivasileiou. During the meeting, they emphasized India's "resolute and proactive policy of zero tolerance towards terrorism," underscoring the nation's strengthened commitment to international peace and security. The Indian Embassy in Greece highlighted the discussions in a post on X.
Kanimozhi emphasized the need for the European Union and the United Nations Security Council to recognize and hold accountable state-sponsored terrorism. She noted that India's strong historical ties with Greece helped convey their message effectively.
The delegation's visit is one of seven multi-party delegations India has tasked with visiting 33 global capitals. This outreach is particularly significant in light of the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack, which resulted in the deaths of 26 people. The aim is to communicate India's concerns regarding Pakistan's alleged designs and India's firm response to terrorism.
AAP MP Ashok Kumar Mittal noted the strong support the delegation received during their visit, adding that the Indian diaspora in Greece voiced their support for India and Prime Minister Narendra Modi, affirming India's image as a peace-loving nation.
During an address at the Hellenic Parliament in Athens, Kanimozhi emphasized India's united stance against terrorism. She expressed gratitude to Greece for condemning terrorism and highlighted the global threat posed by terrorist groups. Kanimozhi referenced a statement by Pakistan's Defence Minister, Khawaja Asif, acknowledging Pakistan's historical support for terrorist groups, underscoring the need for international vigilance against terrorism. She affirmed India's measured response to the Pahalgam attack, avoiding civilian targets, and reiterated the nation's resolve that "enough is enough."
Beyond political dialogues, the delegation also engaged with the editorial board of Greece's leading newspaper, Kathimerini, conveying India's "new normal policy" on terrorism and sharing the principled and calibrated response through 'Operation Sindoor' following the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack. They also convened with leaders and representatives from leading Greek think tanks, centering discussions around India's recalibrated counter-terrorism stance, characterized by prompt and resolute action.
India and Greece share a long-standing relationship built on shared values of democracy, freedom, and a commitment to international peace and security. In August 2023, both countries condemned terrorism in all its forms and manifestations. Strengthening cooperation in areas such as counterterrorism and maritime security has been a growing focus, as evidenced by recent visits by national security officials and intelligence chiefs from both nations.