In recent years, a notable shift has been observed in several European countries, reflecting an increasing interest in playing a more prominent role in the Indo-Pacific region.

While the European Union's Indo-Pacific strategy of 2021 was primarily influenced by France, Germany, and the Netherlands, other member states initially appeared less engaged with events in this distant geographic arena.

However, this perception is rapidly evolving, particularly with Italy actively embracing the Indo-Pacific concept. The latest entrant to this trend is Greece, a European nation poised to become a significant regional actor in the Indo-Pacific landscape.

With the longest coastline among EU member states, Greece has strategically leveraged its geographic advantage to emerge as the world's largest ship-owning nation. The maritime sector currently contributes a remarkable 8 percent to the country's GDP.

Greece not only participates actively in international maritime security initiatives like EUNAVFOR ATALANTA, but also plays a pivotal role in shaping the EU's maritime security agenda. Notably, Greece assumed the presidency when the EU adopted its Maritime Strategy in 2014.

Furthermore, Greece boasts one of the most robust naval forces within the EU, boasting 11 submarines, three frigates, three mine/countermine warfare ships, and 36 offshore patrol units as of November 2023.

In a significant move in 2022, Athens greenlit what is being hailed as the most extensive naval modernisation effort in two decades. Additionally, Greece's maritime prowess is underscored by its leadership in the European Union's Red Sea mission, Operation Aspides, with its operational command centre situated in Larissa.

While Greece undoubtedly holds considerable maritime power in its immediate vicinity, the crucial question arises: Can it extend its influence to distant geographies, and is there a willingness to do so?

The answer appears to be a resounding affirmative. Athens' interest in the Indo-Pacific is intricately linked to its ambition to serve as a bridge between Europe and Asia. Establishing closer strategic ties with India serves as a pivotal entry point for Greece into Asia, where its influence has traditionally been limited.

India to act as pivot for Greece’ Indo-Pacific strategy

During Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's historic visit to Greece in August of the previous year, both nations expressed their commitment to a free, open, and rules-based Mediterranean Sea and Indo-Pacific, setting the stage for enhanced bilateral co-operation.

Following the visit, Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis, in an op-ed for an Indian newspaper, announced plans for the Hellenic Air Force and Navy to soon operate in the Indo-Pacific, signifying a deepening of defence and security ties between India and Greece.

Less than a year later, Mitsotakis embarked on a state visit to India from February 21 to 22, during which he also served as the chief guest and delivered the keynote address at the Raisina Dialogue, India's premier conference on geopolitics and geostrategy, co-organised by the Ministry of External Affairs.

In his inaugural address at the Raisina Dialogue, Mitsotakis lauded India's ascendance on the global stage and its pivotal role within the G20, underscoring India as a crucial ally in the pursuit of peace, security, and efforts to combat climate change.

Echoing European Commission President Ursula Von der Leyen's call for bolstering EU-India ties, Mitsotakis emphasised the significance of a robust EU-India partnership as the cornerstone of Europe's foreign policy.

Prime Minister Modi hailed Mitsotakis' visit to India as a testament to the strengthening strategic partnership between the two nations, noting the deep mutual trust reflected in growing co-operation in defence and security sectors.

Following bilateral and delegation-level talks, both leaders announced their commitment to doubling bilateral trade by 2030, underscoring the tangible progress in Indo-Greek relations.

In his vote of thanks, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar highlighted the natural synergy between India and Greece, grounded in a shared perspective on global challenges and opportunities.

As India expands its global footprint, Greece emerges as a favourable destination, reflecting the mutual commitment of these civilisational states to contribute to shaping the evolving world order.

Highlighting the Indo-Pacific's growing significance, both Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni in the previous year and Mitsotakis (this year) reiterated its importance to the EU. Mitsotakis emphasised Greece's efforts to intensify EU partnerships with Indo-Pacific countries, aligning with the broader strategic vision of fostering regional stability and prosperity.

Beyond India

Greece's interest in the Indo-Pacific extends beyond its engagement with India, as evidenced by its willingness to collaborate with Japan in the region.

In January 2023, Greek Prime Minister Mitsotakis held discussions with Japanese Prime Minister Kishida Fumio, stressing on the inseparable nature of Euro-Atlantic and Indo-Pacific security. Both leaders underscored the importance of strengthening co-operation among their respective nations and like-minded partners to address evolving strategic challenges.

This initiative coincides with Greece's efforts to deepen ties with the United States, particularly through an enhanced defence collaboration facilitated by the updated U.S.-Greece Mutual Defense Cooperation Agreement.

Greece's active involvement in the Indo-Pacific is warmly received by regional countries, reflecting Athens' commitment to foster a genuinely inclusive approach to the region. Despite maintaining positive relations with China, Greece's participation in discussions promoting a free and open Indo-Pacific challenges Beijing's narrative of exclusionary intentions behind such dialogues.

Greece's continued partnership with China, particularly evident in the development of the Piraeus Port, underscores the compatibility of embracing the Indo-Pacific concept with maintaining cordial ties with Beijing.

As Greece prepares to host the Our Ocean Conference in April, it aims to enhance co-operation with Indo-Pacific nations, positioning itself as a significant player in a region where various countries vie for influence.

Additionally, Greece sees significant potential in the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor and is eager to become an integral member, thereby bolstering its role in shaping regional connectivity initiatives.

The unfolding alignment and substantive engagement of Greece in the Indo-Pacific present an opportunity for regional countries to capitalise on Athens' increasing involvement and contribute to shaping the region's future trajectory.