In an effort to better Greece’s international image, the country’s Department of Foreign Affairs has stated it will strengthen ties with the Greek diaspora to fend off the stigma of ‘Grexit’ to a more appropriate ‘Greform’ (Greek reform), following the effects of its economic crisis.

Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Yianni Amanatidis (responsible for Greeks abroad) addressed parliament earlier this week, stressing the need to invest time, energy and resources into rebuilding Greece’s shattered reputation following the events that transpired its 2008 economic crash.

“Both the prime minister [Alexis Tsipras] and ministers have opened up a dialogue channel with expatriates to encourage the diaspora to play a more active part in our national efforts to create investment,” he said in his address.

“Greeks abroad should not only be seen as sources of funding opportunity but, more importantly, as partners for development. A stronger relationship between the national centre and the Greek diaspora is desirable and urgent.”

Amanatidis pointed out the country’s economic woes had led to a “brain drain” – an emigration of skilled workers who have sought greater opportunities to put their skills and qualifications to use.

The Minister emphasised a need to tap into the diaspora’s information and skills network to better Greece’s development – with scientifically and technologically savvy individuals in mind.

Of particular importance, he said, was reforming education and taxes, and the ongoing matter for Greeks abroad voting in Greek general elections, whilst revising the Council of Hellenes Abroad (ΣΑΕ) into an even greater democratic organisation.

He also noted cultural diplomacy as lacking, despite the country’s rich national history.

“At the outset of the decade, with the outbreak of the economic crisis in our country we saw a new wave of emigration to countries in central Europe, mainly to Germany, where schools now operate Greek curricular,” he said.

“Education policy is necessary to adapt to the specific educational and cultural conditions of Greek children abroad.”

“We believe that an important contribution to the Greek language education within the diaspora will be through intergovernmental agreement.”

He also stated greater religious diplomacy was required, which can greatly influence trust and legitimacy – stressing aspects such as respect and loyalty can be found through religion and transposed to diplomatic engagement.