Former Greek Foreign Minister Petros Molyviatis passed away on Sunday, May 4th, at the age of 97.
He had been grappling with significant health challenges in recent months, primarily respiratory issues, which led to multiple hospitalizations.
Born on June 12, 1928, in Chios, Molyviatis was an experienced politician and diplomat. His mother, Agapi, was the sister of the famous author Elias Venezis, hailing from Ayvalik in Asia Minor.
A Distinguished Career
Petros Molyviatis was a long-time ally of Prime Minister and former President of the Republic, Constantine Karamanlis. He held the position of Foreign Minister of Greece three times (2004–2006, 2012, and 2015) and served as Director of the Prime Minister’s Political Office from 1974 to 1980. Additionally, he held the roles of Secretary General of the Presidency (1980–1985 and 1990–1995) and was a Member of Parliament on New Democracy’s nationwide list from 1996 to 2004. Since 1983, he had been the lifetime president of the board of the Konstantinos Karamanlis Foundation.
His death leaves a significant gap in Greek political life. Molyviatis was instrumental in shaping Greek-Turkish relations, addressing the Cyprus conflict, and steering Greece’s European integration.
He is survived by his wife, Niovi Christaki, and their two children—a son and a daughter. His daughter, Lora, is married to businessman and banker Stelios Panagopoulos, a former head of the National Bank of Greece and MEP for PASOK.
A Career in Diplomacy
A graduate in law from the University of Athens, Molyviatis embarked on a diplomatic career, holding key positions at the UN in New York, NATO in Brussels, and within Greek embassies in Moscow, Ankara, and Pretoria.
From 1974 to 1980, he was the Director of Prime Minister Karamanlis’ Political Office and later held the role of Secretary General of the Presidency twice. In 2004, during the first Karamanlis government, he became Foreign Minister, serving until February 14, 2006.
He returned as Foreign Minister in May 2012 under Panagiotis Pikrammenos’ caretaker government and again in August 2015 in Vassiliki Thanou-Christophilou’s caretaker administration.
Proposal on the Macedonia Naming Dispute
In April 2005, Molyviatis, along with then-Prime Minister Karamanlis, addressed six letters to EU leaders and U.S. President George W. Bush, proposing a resolution to the Macedonia naming dispute. They suggested the use of a dual name: “Republic of Macedonia–Skopje” for international recognition, while allowing the domestic name “Republic of Macedonia” to persist without a constitutional amendment.
Tributes and Condolences
Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis expressed:
“Greece, New Democracy, and all who knew him bid farewell with deep respect to Petros Molyviatis—a figure who significantly impacted Greek diplomacy. He was a constant presence in the evolution of the center-right. He served the nation with dignity, moderation, and a spirit of unity. We honor a worthy Greek as he passes into history. My heartfelt condolences to his family.”
Former Prime Minister Kostas Karamanlis conveyed his sorrow:
“With profound grief and gratitude, I bid farewell to Petros Molyviatis. Greece mourns a great man and true patriot who devoted his life to safeguarding national interests. Throughout his diplomatic service and as Foreign Minister, he exhibited wisdom, restraint, and integrity. Personally, I have lost someone deeply cherished. My condolences to his beloved children, Giorgos and Lora, and his grandchildren.”
Deputy Prime Minister Kostis Hatzidakis remarked:
“We have lost a nobleman. Petros Molyviatis was an esteemed Greek who represented the nation honorably, both as a diplomat and as Foreign Minister. His contributions were remarkable, and he gave so much to our homeland. We bid him farewell with the utmost respect.”
Minister Adonis Georgiadis stated:
“With the passing of Petros Molyviatis, Greece has suffered a significant loss. My sincere condolences to his family during this difficult time. It was a privilege to have known him.”
Former Minister Andreas Loverdos added:
“I pay my respects to Petros Molyviatis, an experienced and kind diplomat. I had the pleasure of collaborating with him both during and after his tenure as Foreign Minister. I will always remember him fondly. My heartfelt condolences to his family.”
Ask me anything
Explore related questions
