The significance of ecclesiastical diplomacy and the broader role of the Church as a facilitator of international cooperation and dialogue were examined during a training session for Attaché candidates of the 30th Training Programme of the Greek Diplomatic Academy.
As part of the educational programme, the Greek Diplomatic Academy welcomed Metropolitan Kyrillos of Imbros and Tenedos, Exarch of the Aegean Sea, and Metropolitan Georgios of Guinea, Exarch of the Atlantic Coast of Africa.
During the meeting, the two hierarchs presented the future diplomats with various aspects of the role that the Church can play in the contemporary international environment, particularly in establishing channels of communication, promoting dialogue and strengthening international cooperation.
The discussion offered the Attaché candidates an opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of the concept of ecclesiastical diplomacy and to examine its significance as a distinct dimension of international relations.
Particular attention was also given to the capacity of ecclesiastical institutions to serve as channels of communication and dialogue, especially within an increasingly complex international environment.
The meeting highlighted how Churches and religious institutions, through their international presence and networks, can contribute to fostering cooperation, facilitating communication and promoting mutual understanding among different communities and societies.
The initiative formed part of the Greek Diplomatic Academy’s training programme aimed at familiarising future members of Greece’s diplomatic service with the diverse actors and mechanisms that can influence contemporary international relations and contribute to dialogue and cooperation.
