Europe Asia News

Greek Foreign Minister George Gerapetritis addressed the swearing-in ceremony of the 30th class of the Embassy Attaché Candidates Training Program, held in Athens on October 19, 2026. Gerapetritis noted that the new diplomats were beginning their duties at a time of rapid changes in the international system, emphasizing the importance of strengthening the diplomatic service with expertise from different fields.

Speaking at the ceremony, which was also attended by the President of Greece, Gerapetritis highlighted the Greek Diplomatic Academy's efforts to improve its training activities. He noted that the recruitment of new diplomats from diverse fields, including chemistry, architecture and archaeology, alongside law and international relations, brought greater diversity to the diplomatic corps.

Stating that diplomacy is no longer conducted solely through traditional methods, Gerapetritis said cultural diplomacy, energy diplomacy, economic diplomacy and public diplomacy collectively form an integral part of Greek foreign policy. He added that the common objective of these areas is to support national interests and the country's rights.

Gerapetritis said the new diplomats would face significant challenges on a global scale, noting that the international security order established after the Second World War was experiencing serious upheaval. He pointed out that climate, food and energy crises, alongside armed conflicts, had become prominent issues on the international agenda. He stated that these developments created a need for different approaches to diplomacy.

Addressing Greece's position on the international stage, Gerapetritis argued that his country's voice was heard in international forums and reflected the principles of international law and multilateralism. He said efforts had been made to address shortages in diplomatic personnel and infrastructure that arose during the economic crisis. Gerapetritis reported improvements in diplomats' salaries, overseas posting allowances, housing assistance, educational support for their children and the infrastructure of diplomatic missions abroad.

At the end of his speech, Gerapetritis addressed the families of the new diplomats, acknowledging that serving abroad could be emotionally challenging for families. Stating that the new diplomats were beginning their duties to serve their country, he wished them success in their assignments.