“In culture, Greece is a great power. Our heritage is particular and it is one sector where we can, and should, play a role in world affairs. It’s a sector in which Greece has a lot to offer,” said Minister of Foreign Affairs, Nikos Kotzias, introducing the Ancient Civilizations Forum, an initiative that promotes Greece’s role as a geostrategic and cultural hub.
Co-organised by Kotzias and his Chinese counterpart Wang Yi, the Forum welcomed representatives from India, Iran, Iraq, Egypt, Italy, Mexico, Peru, and Bolivia at the Zappeio mansion. The diplomats represent ancient civilisations and will work towards closer international cooperation. The Forum is part of the Foreign Ministry’s multidimensional policy of soft power which concerns utilising intellectual, traditional, historical, and cultural issues.
“Upgrading culture is important because culture brings peace, it doesn’t bring war. It brings education; therefore it upgrades people’s quality of life,” Mr Kotzias said.
During the press conference, the minister announced he will accompany Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras on his visit to China in May. He also said the second conference for security and stability in the eastern Mediterranean will be held in Rhodes on 22-23 May. In November Athens will host the second conference for the protection of religious communities in the Middle East.