Perhaps you’ve wondered about the story behind the Diplomatic mission of Palestine right here in Athens. It stands as a symbol of the enduring relationship between Greece and Palestine. These two nations share historical ties that have fostered excellent diplomatic relations.
The Diplomatic mission of Palestine in Athens is more than just a building. It represents Palestine’s presence in Greece. Greece maintains a consulate general in Jerusalem. This consulate is accredited to Palestine. Both countries actively participate in the East Mediterranean Gas Forum.
Let’s delve a bit into the history. The 1960s through the 1990s saw a surge of terrorist attacks in Greece by Palestinian organizations. This peaked in the 1970s. Despite this turbulent period, Greece established diplomatic relations with the PLO in 1981. However, Greece only maintained consular-level relations with Israel until 1990. It was under Mitsotakis that Greece formally recognized Israel.
Later, under George Papandreou and Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis, Greek-Israeli relations improved rapidly. This followed a deterioration in Israel’s relations with Turkey. The Gaza flotilla raid caused this deterioration.
In 2024, tragedy struck. A Greek citizen was killed in the Jaffa shooting by Hamas gunmen. The Greek Foreign Ministry condemned this act of terror. Despite such events, Greece continues to navigate its relationship with both Palestine and Israel.
Did you know that in 2001, approximately 4,000 Palestinians resided in Greece? This fact underscores the human connection between the two countries.
Now, let’s address the nuances of diplomatic recognition. Greece has not fully formalized its relations with Palestine. Geopolitical disputes contribute to this cautious approach. However, in December 2015, the Hellenic parliament took a significant step. In the presence of President Mahmoud Abbas, they voted unanimously. They recommended full recognition of the State of Palestine. The envisioned borders were those of June 4, 1967. East Jerusalem would be its capital.
Greece has often been a supporter of the Palestinian cause. President Karolos Papoulias affirmed Greece’s support for a Palestinian state alongside Israel. Andreas Papandreou maintained a strong stance against Israel. He was more critical than other governments in the European Community.
Showing solidarity, 41 municipalities in Greece raised the Palestinian flag on their buildings. This occurred on May 15, 2023. It marked the 75th Anniversary of the Nakba.
The Diplomatic mission of Palestine is located at 31 Marathonodromon Street in P. Psychico, Athens. You can reach them at (+30) 21 0672 6061. Or you can send an email to falastin@otenet.gr. The Representative serves as the Consul.
As we stand here, remember the complex history and ongoing dialogues that shape Greece–Palestine relations. The Diplomatic mission of Palestine in Athens is a testament to these enduring ties. It symbolizes the hopes for a peaceful future.