Germany–Greece relations

The Germany–Greece relations have existed in their current legal form since 1951, when the Federal Republic of Germany resumed diplomatic relations with initially twelve countries. Greece has an embassy in Berlin and five General Consulates in Hamburg, Munich, Düsseldorf, Stuttgart and Frankfurt. Germany has an embassy in Athens and a General Consulate in Thessaloniki. Both countries are full members of the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe, Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development, European Union, NATO, and the Eurozone.

The relationship between Germany and Greece is deeply rooted in history, extending far beyond recent times and reaching back to Roman expansion, when Greek terms entered the German language through Latin. During the Middle Ages, the Byzantine Empire maintained close ties with Western Europe, leaving linguistic and cultural traces. The Renaissance saw a further flourishing of Greek influence, fueled by the Ottoman occupation of Greek cities and regions and the increasing interest in Greek culture and science.

Despite these profound cultural ties, unresolved issues remain in German-Greek relations, particularly concerning war reparations from World War II and economic exploitation (Katochi) during that period, especially the Compulsory loan of Greece to Nazi Germany (Zwangsanleihe). The narrative that Germany considers these issues as settled, interpreting them as reparations that have been addressed, contrasts sharply with Greece's view, which still regards these claims as open and legitimate. German governments have repeatedly refused to engage in discussions on this matter, fostering a sense of injustice and unfulfilled grievances in Greece. As perceptions of historical responsibility have gained importance globally, ignoring or dismissing this chapter not only strains German-Greek relations but also burdens the collective European conscience. The only exception appears to be Greece’s acknowledgment of uncomfortable truths and the collective efforts to confront the Holocaust in Greece, which have led to joint solutions.

Critical perspective on Germany's stance: Germany’s refusal to engage constructively with Greece over unresolved wartime debts and reparations reflects a problematic reluctance to confront historical responsibility. This stance can be seen as a form of historical amnesia or an unwillingness to fully acknowledge past injustices, which hampers genuine reconciliation. It risks undermining trust and solidarity within Europe, where shared history and collective responsibility should form the basis of future cooperation. Recognizing and addressing these unresolved issues transparently is essential not only for justice and reconciliation but also for strengthening the moral fabric of the European Union. Ignoring these historical grievances risks perpetuating a legacy of unresolved conflict and deepening divisions within Europe.