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Greek Prime Minister’s visit to boost ties

Special Correspondent

Karamanli’ visit comes as the Greeks seek to engage more deeply with India

Kostas Karamanlis

NEW DELHI: Prime Minister of Greece Kostas Karamanlis arrived here on Thursday on a four-day visit.

The visit takes place at a time when there is an increasing desire on the Greek side to engage more deeply with India.

The visits last year of the Finance Minister and the Deputy Foreign Minister (who looks after Foreign Trade), both accompanied by large business delegations, are an indicator of this realisation, said Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Navtej Sarna.

During his visit, the Greek Prime Minister will hold discussions with President Pratibha Patil, Vice-President Hamid Ansari, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, who will host a banquet in his honour, and External Affairs Minister Pranab Mukherjee. He will also meet United Progressive Alliance Chairperson Sonia Gandhi and Leader of the Opposition L.K. Advani.

Mr. Karamanlis’ visit follows the visit of the then President, A.P.J. Abdul Kalam, to Greece in April last year.

“Today there is a desire on both sides to engage more deeply with each other. Both countries have rapidly growing economies and are playing an increasing role in regional and global affairs. India is keen to develop relations with Greece in a cross-sectoral manner,” said the spokesperson.

On the growth path

Bilateral trade is small but on a growth path — Indian exports last fiscal stood at $ 672.51 million while imports were at $209.66 million. “During the visit of Mr. Kalam to Greece, a target of $1 billion by 2010 was set, and we hope we can surpass this very soon,” added Mr. Sarna.

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