New Delhi: Greek Defence Minister Nikos Dendias has said that India and the broader Indian subcontinent could emerge as one of the most suitable sources of legal migration for Europe as the region faces a rapidly ageing population and a shrinking workforce. He made the remarks on Saturday while speaking at the India European Union Forum 2026 in New Delhi.
Describing migration as a permanent global reality, Dendias noted that movement of people has existed for centuries and will continue in the future. He pointed out that many European countries are experiencing almost negative population growth, which has created an urgent need for younger and skilled workers to sustain their economies.
In this context, he highlighted India’s favourable demographic profile and said the subcontinent offers strong potential for carefully planned migration partnerships. According to him, such arrangements must be designed in a structured manner so that both the countries sending migrants and those receiving them benefit equally.
The Greek minister also expressed concern over the growing problem of illegal migration. He warned that organised human smuggling networks are exploiting vulnerable people and creating instability across regions. Stronger international coordination, he said, is essential to dismantle these profit driven criminal operations and to promote safe and lawful movement instead.
Apart from migration, Dendias spoke about the deep historical and cultural connections between Greece and India. Referring to the ancient links dating back to the time of Alexander the Great, he said India has always held a significant place in Greek imagination and mythology. Modern cooperation, he added, provides an opportunity to revive those bonds in areas such as trade, technology and strategic engagement.
The two day India European Union Forum concluded on Saturday after extensive discussions on issues including economic cooperation, security, innovation and global geopolitics. The Track 1.5 initiative was organised by the Ministry of External Affairs along with the Ananta Centre and brought together more than 200 policymakers, diplomats and industry representatives from India and EU member states.
External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar delivered the opening address on the first day of the forum, while Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal participated in a special session. Dendias addressed delegates during a dedicated interaction on the concluding day, underlining the importance of stronger India Europe collaboration in the years ahead.
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