Greek Foreign Minister Giorgos Gerapetritis met with his Iraqi counterpart Fuad Hussein in Baghdad on Thursday, reaffirming Greece’s commitment to stronger bilateral relations and regional stability.
“We look forward to a stable political environment in Iraq, which will serve as fertile ground on which to build,” Gerapetritis said after the meeting.
The minister emphasized the ancient roots of Greek-Iraqi relations, noting that both nations are “pillars of ancient civilizations that profoundly influenced the world.” He highlighted the legacy of Alexander the Great as a symbol of shared history and mutual understanding.
Expanding economic and cultural cooperation
Gerapetritis described Iraq as “one of Greece’s most important trade partners,” noting discussions focused on boosting cooperation in key sectors including energy, investment, academia, tourism, agriculture, construction, and water management technology.
Both sides agreed to leverage “the untapped potential” in their economic relationship, following the 9th Joint Interministerial Committee meeting held in Baghdad ten days earlier.
He also announced that direct flights between Athens and Erbil will begin in December, operated by Aegean Airlines — marking the first direct connection between Baghdad and an EU member state. “This will strengthen our economic and cultural bonds,” he said.
Greece’s regional and global role
Gerapetritis underlined Greece’s position as an elected member of the UN Security Council for 2025–2026, reaffirming its support for international law, the UN Charter, and the Law of the Sea. He stressed Greece’s commitment to sovereignty, territorial integrity, and peaceful dispute resolution.
Calling Iraq “one of the most influential countries in the region,” he praised Baghdad’s efforts to promote peace “in turbulent times.” He added that Greece, maintaining open dialogue with all Arab nations, is focused on contributing to regional stability and prosperity in the broader Middle East.
On Gaza and Syria
Regarding the crisis in Gaza, the Greek foreign minister expressed cautious optimism following the Cairo Peace Summit in Sharm el-Sheikh, saying it “offers a ray of hope for a sustainable ceasefire.”
He added that Greece aims to play an active role in Gaza’s reconstruction and humanitarian relief efforts “to alleviate the human tragedy.”
The meeting also touched on the situation in Syria, with Gerapetritis reiterating Greece’s longstanding support for the country’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. He urged the transitional government to ensure inclusive governance representing all ethnic and religious groups, including Syrian Christians.
Strengthening EU–Iraq ties and cultural diplomacy
Gerapetritis confirmed Greece’s readiness to support stronger EU–Iraq relations and promote economic growth across the wider region.
He also invited Hussein to attend the 9th Ministerial Meeting of the Forum of Ancient Civilizations, which Greece will host in Athens this December, as part of its 2025 presidency of the forum.
“This will be another opportunity to explore the growing potential of our bilateral relationship,” he concluded.
