Greek-Indian Business Forum in Athens: Strengthening Economic and Trade Relations
Athens, March 11 – Significant prospects for the further development of economic and trade relations between Greece and India were highlighted at the Greek-Indian Business Forum. The event was recently co-organized by the Athens Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ACCI) and Enterprise Greece, in collaboration with the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce & Industry (FICCI) and with the support of the Enterprise Europe Network.
The forum took place within the framework of a visit by an Indian business delegation to the Greek capital from March 4 to 6. This followed a recent meeting between Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, confirming the growing interest in expanding bilateral economic relations.
Commitment to Bilateral Cooperation Despite Challenges
The Greek-Indian Business Forum was welcomed by the Ambassador of India to Athens, Rudrendra Tandon. On behalf of ACCI, Board Member Ioannis Kourtalis addressed the forum, noting: “…Despite difficulties in air connectivity due to the current situation in the Middle East, the holding of the Forum demonstrates the firm commitment of both sides. There are great potentials in the fields of technology, energy, infrastructure, food, and tourism, and I am sure that the B2B meetings will lead to tangible results and strengthened trade relations.”
In his introductory remarks, Ioannis Retsas, General Director of Strategic Trade Development at Enterprise Greece, referred to the dynamic nature of Greece-India trade and economic relations, as well as the prospects for their further enhancement. Subsequently, Nikos Stamou, Investment Promotion Director for the Energy, Environment, and Services sectors at Enterprise Greece, presented the business and investment opportunities offered by Greece to the participants.
India: A Strategic Partner for Greece
Dr. Marinos Yannopoulos, CEO of Enterprise Greece, stated: “India is among the fastest-growing economies globally and is a strategic partner for Greece. The increasing interest of the Indian business community in our country highlights significant cooperation prospects in high value-added sectors. Through initiatives such as the Greek-Indian Business Forum, we are substantially strengthening the interconnection of the business communities of the two countries, expanding the possibilities for trade partnerships, investments, and technological collaborations. At the same time, we are promoting Greece as a reliable business and investment destination, as well as a gateway to the markets of Europe and the wider region.”
Active Participation and B2B Meetings
The Forum saw the physical participation of representatives from eight Indian companies, while an additional fourteen entrepreneurs participated online. The participating Indian companies operate in dynamic sectors such as education, defense, information technology, pharmaceuticals and medical equipment, shipping, and food.
Approximately 80 bilateral meetings were held between Greek and Indian businesses during the Forum, aiming to explore new collaborations and strengthen business networking. The business delegation’s program concluded the next day with targeted visits and business meetings between representatives of Indian companies and Greek businesses and organizations.
Specifically, the entrepreneurs visited the facilities of HEMEXPO, ERMA TECH, and SEABRIGHT, where they had the opportunity to discuss with the following representatives:
- Christos Papakis, Executive Director, HEMEXPO
- Nikos Drimalas, Sales Director, ERMA TECH GROUP
- Manos Tsonis, Sales Executive, SEABRIGHT
- Ilias Mallios, Export Director, SEABRIGHT
- Panagiotis Mallios, Managing Director, SEABRIGHT
Additionally, a visit was made to “Hellenic Cosmos,” the Cultural Center of the Foundation of the Hellenic World, where entrepreneurs had the opportunity to discuss with the CEO of the Foundation of the Hellenic World, Dimitris Euphraimoglou.
The successful forum underscores the mutual commitment of both nations to foster stronger economic ties and explore new avenues for collaboration across various sectors.
Source: APE – MBE
