India, Greece discuss developments in Eastern Mediterranean during Jaishankar's Athens visit

Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar held talks with his Greek counterpart Nikos Dendias in Athens on Saturday. Both the countries discussed recent developments in the eastern Mediterranean, Cyprus and Libya.

Eastern Mediterranean saw tense developments recently over Turkey's claims in the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) which Greece says belongs to it under UN laws. Cyprus and Libya are also involved in this given their EEZs are also impacted due to tussle in the region.     

This is the first visit to Athens by an Indian foreign minister in last 18 years.

During the talks, the Greek Foreign Minister Nikos Dendias focussed on Indo-Pacific, counter-terror, UN reforms as well. A joint release said, "Both sides noted with satisfaction the convergence of each other's vision for a free, open, inclusive and cooperative Indo-Pacific ensuring connectivity and growth for all in the region."

Both sides called for reforms at the United Nations security council and other multilateral institutions to make them "more inclusive, transparent, accountable, and better reflective of contemporary geopolitical realities." During the discussions, Greek side reiterated its support for permanent membership of India in a reformed United Nations Security Council (UNSC)

Greece's neighbour Turkey is part of the Uniting for Consensus or coffee club which is countering bids by G4 nations (Brazil, Germany, India, and Japan) for expanded UNSC. Pakistan is also part of the coffee club along with ally Turkey.

One of the most significant outcomes of Indian foreign minister's visit to Greece was the country formally joining the International Solar Alliance (ISA). Foreign minister Nikos Dendias formally handed over the agreement of ISA. India Headquartered ISA aims to use solar energy as a source of clean energy that is affordable to all.