Western Vector of Greece's Foreign Policy (Late 2010s – Early 2020s)

Abstract

One of the main features of Greek diplomacy is the combination of pro-Western orientation and the desire to act independently in a number of key issues, firmly defending national interests. In recent years, however, the western vector began to prevail. In ideology, this manifested itself in the positioning of the country as an outpost of Western civilization in the East, a defender of democratic values, operating in accordance with the interests of collective West. In security policy, the main efforts were aimed at creating a counterbalance to Greece's existential rival – Turkey. Not having sufficient resources for an ‘arms race’ with the eastern neighbour, the Greek authorities have shifted their focus to closer cooperation with major powers, as well as with regional actors seeking to curb Turkish ambitions. The idea of confronting ‘geopolitical revisionism’ has taken a prominent place in the political rhetoric of the conservative government, especially since the start of the Russian special military operation in Ukraine. In economic sphere, Greece continues its policy aimed at becoming a key transit hub for transporting energy resources to Europe. Despite the fact that there are good reasons for strengthening ties with the West, the ultimate success of this strategy is not evident. In the Greek media, there is an increasing opinion that such a course will narrow the room for diplomatic maneuver. At the same time, the main task – to isolate Turkey – will not be implemented. In the future, imbalances in foreign policy may hinder the development of economic ties between Greece and non-Western countries (in the case of Russian-Greek relations, this is already happening), and this in turn will undermine the country's resilience to crisis processes in the world economy and politics.