Since 2003, Greece and the Gulf countries have adopted specific initiatives in order to further develop cooperation in sectors of mutual interest; for example, the establishment of the Business Council between Greece – Saudi Arabia and Greece – Oman, both being at the final stage, will improve business relations and aims to further strengthen the economic ties between Greece and the Gulf counties.
Greece is looking through competent agencies for encouraging joint investments and contributing to the privatization of the Gulf countries economies.
We consider, the organized chamber and business visits of special importance, as well as the institutionalization of the contacts between the official representatives (industrialists and exporters), and the participation in international trade fairs in the Gulf.
Cooperation in the tourists industry is considered particularly profitable for all involved, and may become even more profitable through the joint implementation of tourist programs, investments in hotels, means of transportation, etc.
Greece can make further contributions in areas where it has a competitive advantage and expertise, for example in the agricultural sector, energy sector (renewable energy sources i.e solar and aeolic energy), environmental protection projects.
The economic presence of Greece in the Eastern Mediterranean and the Middle East is greatly enhanced as a result of its economic and trade cooperation with the Gulf countries, taking also into account the relatively close proximity of Greece, that is the EU, with the Middle East.
Bilateral economic cooperation with the Gulf countries should be further strengthened and diversified, in order to attain the very satisfactory level of our overall political relations. Therefore, there is ample room for further development, due to our people’s similar mentality and the positive perception of Greek products.
Greece traditionally maintains good and friendly relations with Arab and Middle East countries, due to geographic proximity, economic cooperation and strong historical and cultural bonds dating back to ancient times. A more frequent exchange of visits, both at political and senior officials’ level, would certainly contribute to strengthening our relations. The signing of
important agreements in 2003, concerning: the avoidance of double taxation (Kuwait), Maritime (Bahrain) as well as the signing of Air transport agreements (Qatar, Bahrain, UAE) together with the Economics –Technical cooperation agreement (Qatar), will reinforce and enhance the cooperation of our business communities.
Greece enjoys longstanding diplomatic relations with all Gulf countries; It has Embassies in Abu Dhabi, Kuwait (with parallel accreditation to Bahrain and Qatar) and Riyadh (with parallel accreditation to Oman and Yemen).
We are pleased to note a long tradition of friendly bilateral relations with all countries of the Gulf region and we are determined to develop them further –beyond traded and economic cooperation – with a view to promoting mutual understanding, regional security and stability and coordination on international issues of common interest. In addition we should further
develop cultural and scientific exchanges and civil society contains in order to bring our peoples closer and promote the values of dialogue, tolerance and respect for the other.
