A distinguished figure in Greek politics, Petros Moliviatis is remembered as a key player in shaping Greece’s foreign policy. Born on June 12, 1928, in Chios, Moliviatis became an influential diplomat and politician who worked closely with Konstantinos Karamanlis. After serving in various diplomatic roles, including postings at the United Nations and NATO, he held the position of Foreign Minister three times. Moliviatis passed away at the age of 97 due to complications from respiratory failure while being treated at Evangelismos Hospital.
Moliviatis was instrumental in Greece’s entry into the European Union and advocated for peaceful resolutions in international relations. In 2005, alongside Karamanlis, he proposed a dual-name solution for the Macedonian name dispute, suggesting ‘Republic of Macedonia-Skopje’ for international use while maintaining ‘Republic of Macedonia’ internally.
Leaders across the political spectrum paid tribute to Moliviatis following his death. President Katerina Sakellaropoulou described him as a ‘wise, measured, and constructive embodiment of the Metapolitefsi,’ while Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis praised his dedication to public ethics. Other notable figures such as Nikos Voutsis, Kostas Karamanlis, Antonis Samaras, and even opposition leaders expressed their condolences, highlighting Moliviatis’s integrity and commitment to Greece’s stability and prosperity.
His legacy continues through his family and the institutions he led, including the Konstantinos G. Karamanlis Foundation. As Greece mourns the loss of this esteemed statesman, his contributions to diplomacy and public service remain etched in history.