Greek Tourism Minister Olga Kefalogianni with Japanese Ambassador Koichi Ito. Photo source: Tourism Ministry
Tourism and investment remain key pillars of Greece-Japan relations, as highlighted by Greek Tourism Minister Olga Kefalogianni during an official event at the Japanese Embassy in Athens.
Strengthening air connectivity, increasing tourist flows, and fostering sustainable development were among the priorities highlighted as the two nations celebrate 125 years of diplomatic relations.
Kefalogianni was the guest of honor at a reception hosted by the Japanese Embassy in Greece, marking Japan’s National Day and the birthday of Emperor Naruhito. During her remarks, she extended warm wishes on behalf of the Greek government and focused on the strong friendship between the two countries.
“Tourism is a bridge that unites our peoples, promotes cultural exchange, and enhances the prosperity of our societies,” Kefalogianni stated. She also emphasized Greece’s appeal as a tourism and investment destination, inviting Japanese stakeholders to explore opportunities in the Greek market.
Deepening bilateral collaboration
Photo source: Tourism Ministry
The designation of 2024 as the Greece-Japan Year of Culture and Tourism has led to numerous cultural initiatives strengthening ties between the two nations.
As part of this effort, Princess Kako of Japan visited Athens and Corfu in May 2024 for official engagements.
Additionally, the Japanese edition of Nikos Kazantzakis’ book “Travelling in Japan” was introduced to Japanese audiences, and Robert McCabe’s photography exhibition, which portrays post-war Greece, traveled from the Acropolis Museum to Japan.
Further reinforcing this collaboration, Minister Kefalogianni attended the Tourism Expo Japan (TEJ) 2024 in Tokyo, where Greece was the featured country. Her agenda included meetings with key Japanese officials, business leaders, and aviation professionals to explore ways to enhance connectivity and boost investment in Greece’s tourism sector.
Photo source: Tourism Ministry
Diplomatic relations between Greece and Japan date back to 1899, when the two nations signed their first Agreement of Friendship, Trade, and Navigation. Their strategic partnership was further strengthened by Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis’ official visit to Tokyo in 2023, which laid the groundwork for expanding economic and cultural cooperation.
With 2024 marking a landmark year in Greece-Japan relations, both countries are actively working to deepen collaboration in tourism, investment, and cultural exchange, paving the way for a stronger bilateral partnership in the years ahead.
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