An analysis of the Greek-Egyptian Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) 2022 – a reminiscence of ancient bilateral relations and the imperatives of modern cooperation

Abstract

Greece and Egypt signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Cooperation in the Fields of Aeronautics and Maritime Search & Rescue in November 2022, at Cairo. The aim of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) is to establish a collaborative framework between authorities in Egypt and Greece. The agreement further delves into implementing finance policies and mechanisms to develop technical cooperation between both countries. The significance lies in the continuation of bilateral agreements signed specifically between Greece and Egypt exclusive from the other countries in the Mediterranean basin. The terms in the agreement stress on the diversity of foreign relations between Greece and Egypt in the political, economic, security, and military fields while recalling the ancient ties between the two countries that go back to the ancient prehistoric ages of the Minoan periods and how they developed to extended foreign relations during the 5th century BCE of Greece. Thereby, the research mainly follows an analytical approach under the qualitative methodology and use a historical method to collect data to examine the development of ancient ties between Greece and Egypt using available historical literary and archaeological evidence. The Mediterranean basin consists of many countries that have developed foreign affairs on different levels throughout the years. The bilateral relations between Greece and Egypt stand out from other Mediterranean countries, as throughout history they have remained loyal to each other due to mutually beneficial factors, irrespective of the cultural development of both countries. The history of Greece and Egypt reveals many instances where they have extended their relations in times of need. This research delves into the implications of the memorandum on the diplomatic ties of the two nations, its effects on the security dynamics in the Mediterranean region, and any broader regional or international consequences resulting from this MoU.