Last month the Conservative Friends of Greece group welcomed the Greek leader of the opposition, and Conservative counterpart Kyriakos Mitsotakis in London.
During the meeting a number of matters were discussed that included common bilateral projects, events, and also the relationship between the sister parties of New Democracy and the Conservative Party. Alberto Costa MP gave his remarks on the meeting stating “It was a pleasure to host our guests from Greece. Greece and the United Kingdom have enjoyed very strong and positive ties, and it is now more important than ever, that we work to strengthen the links and continue to work together. Conservative Friends of Greece have made an incredibly positive contribution to this already, and I look forward to ongoing engagement in the future.” Kyriakos Mitsotakis also gave his remarks stating “We had today a very good discussion on the relationship both our nations will enjoy when the U.K. leaves the EU. Discussion of the status of Greeks in the U.K, business ties, and other matters was the beginning of a long period of dialogue.”
Discussions led to agreeing working together for the mutual benefit of businesses, that included the Greek shipping industry which has a significant presence in the U.K. as well as agricultural trade, and most significant tourism which year on year is increasing in activity in terms of visitor numbers for both the U.K and Greece. Part of the discussions brought about the current economic ties both the U.K and Greece enjoy. The United Kingdom is the 5th largest importer of Greek products, 3rd largest importer of Greek agricultural products and 2nd largest importer of Greek pharmaceuticals. Hence the need to maintain trade ties and increase business activity between both nations is essential, even after the U.K. exits the EU.