At a reception marking Korea’s National Day, held at the Athens Concert Hall, Greece’s Minister of Maritime Affairs and Insular Policy, Vassilis Kikilias, underscored the close maritime ties between Greece and the Republic of Korea. Speaking as Guest of Honor, he highlighted the enduring importance of the relationship between the two nations.

Kikilias thanked Ambassador Juseong Lim for the invitation, stressing that Greece “does not forget the Greeks who gave their lives in the Korean War (1950–53).” He described the presence of war veterans and their families at the event as “deeply moving.”

Turning to shipping, he emphasized that Greece remains the world’s leading maritime power, with Greek shipowners placing the largest number of orders at Korean shipyards. He noted that these shipyards are consistently a top choice thanks to their long-standing reputation for high-quality services.

The minister also pointed to the participation of representatives from both the political and business communities at the reception as “a reflection of the high level of relations and the potential for further cooperation.”

Concluding his remarks, Kikilias announced his intention to visit the Republic of Korea in the near future, with the aim of strengthening maritime ties between the two countries even further.