In an era where geopolitical balances are shifting rapidly and the international arena increasingly resembles a multipolar conflict, foreign policy is no longer confined to ministerial councils and high-level summits. It is also conducted in the corridors of parliaments, in low-key tête-à-têtes and institutional exchanges, where mutual understanding is built and common ground is sought.
The First Deputy Speaker of the Hellenic Parliament, Giannis Plakiotakis, has assumed a discreet yet pivotal role: promoting Greek interests through the institution of parliamentary diplomacy. By hosting foreign parliamentary delegations, representing the Parliament in international fora, and undertaking targeted missions abroad, he seeks to amplify Greece’s voice in a global environment that demands readiness, institutional insight and strategic cohesion.
In the following interview, he speaks about the nature of these engagements, the strategy behind institutional cooperation, and how the Greek Parliament can act as a force multiplier for the country in a world of growing uncertainty.
– Parliamentary diplomacy operates away from the public eye but very close to decision-making centers. What are you trying to build through your interactions with foreign parliamentary delegations?
Parliamentary diplomacy does not replace traditional foreign policy—it complements it. Through my engagements with foreign delegations, I build relationships of trust, establish channels of communication and foster conditions of mutual understanding. Our goal is to create a support network for Greece’s positions—not only at the governmental level, but also within parliaments, which often operate with greater flexibility and depth.
– What is the significance of your international travels in the context of parliamentary diplomacy, and what messages do you convey as a representative of the Hellenic Parliament?
International travels are not mere formalities. They are opportunities for strategic dialogue. In every visit, I convey the voice of the Hellenic Parliament, projecting our national positions and presenting the image of a country that is stable, reliable and committed to international law. Especially in times of global volatility, direct personal engagement helps shape alliances and reinforces Greece’s image as a pillar of stability.
– In an era of geopolitical fluidity, what role do you believe parliaments can play, and how can Greece strengthen its position through parliamentary channels?
Parliaments can act as catalysts for dialogue and promote a more participatory, multidimensional foreign policy. Through institutional cooperation, exchanges of experience and joint initiatives, Greece could advance its positions, dismantle stereotypes and highlight its principles and values. It is a softer, yet equally effective, form of power.
– Have you observed differences in the way parliaments function in the countries you’ve visited? What can one learn, institutionally and politically, from such exchanges?
Each parliament functions within its own political, cultural and legal framework. These differences are valuable, as they offer stimuli for institutional self-improvement. We learn new ways to enhance transparency, participation and efficiency. At the same time, mutual respect and understanding of different political cultures are strengthened.
– How do you ensure that parliamentary engagements go beyond formal statements and translate into meaningful diplomatic value for Greece?
Each engagement is assessed based on its potential for future cooperation, shared goals and commitment to concrete actions. We monitor the continuity of our contacts, utilize institutional tools like parliamentary friendship groups, and set agendas aligned with our strategic interests. We don’t settle for courteous declarations—we invest in political capital with long-term returns.
– Through your own initiatives, what role can Parliament play in highlighting critical national issues such as the Cyprus problem, Turkish provocations or the energy strategy in the Eastern Mediterranean?
Parliament can serve as a platform for internationally substantiating national positions. Through systematic briefings of our foreign counterparts, targeted visits and collaborations, we project our steadfast positions: respect for international law, deterrence capability and peaceful coexistence. Regarding the Cyprus issue, for example, we reinforce dialogue for a fair and sustainable solution, while also highlighting the regional significance of the Eastern Mediterranean as a hub of energy security.
– In your contacts with foreign parliamentary officials, what key points do you emphasize to enhance international understanding of Greece’s positions?
We emphasize Greece’s unwavering commitment to international law, its geostrategic position in the Eastern Mediterranean, its values of democracy and peace, and its contribution to regional stability. We insist on dialogue, trust-building and institutional cooperation—key elements for peaceful conflict resolution. Greece is a country with historical depth and contemporary geopolitical relevance.