JOURNALIST: What is your impression of this Forum – of this meeting – and what is Greece’s contribution?
N. KOTZIAS: We have the pleasure of having launched this Forum, together with the People’s Republic of China. Now the Forum is travelling the world and has come here, to the heights of Bolivia. Bolivia is a country with an authentic civilization that is very much alive. One needs only look at the beauty in this room to realize the beauty and vitality of this culture.
JOURNALIST: Mr. Minister, this is the second meeting of the Forum here in Bolivia. It took place because of the cooperation between the countries participating here. The Bolivian Minister of Foreign Affairs spoke of “Mother Earth”. What do you expect of this meeting?
N. KOTZIAS: I think that what Bolivia brings to global civilization is the notion of spirit. In a time of corruption and a dearth of principles and values, I think Bolivian tradition brings new ways of thinking to all of us. It is an inspiration. We came here today to intensify the work we are doing. As you know, all of the countries represented here meet in UNESCO, and the Bolivian presidency will soon be preparing two meetings: one on the academic issues, and one, as always, in September, at the UN General Assembly. And all of the Ministers will be participating in that. We want to point up the great importance of our civilizations in today’s world, their vibrancy. And we want to defend our heritage and repatriate cultural artefacts. Culture is a soft power; a peaceful power. We have to support its presence everywhere. For me, personally, there is no foreign policy without cultural diplomacy. I think everyone here feels the same way.
JOURNALIST: Mr. Minister, what do you think of Bolivia’s economy on an international level?
N. KOTZIAS: We know that Bolivia had great difficulties in the past. We know about the impact of colonialism on the whole continent, and that is why we are very, very pleased to be seeing a Bolivia that is growing, getting stronger and finding the path to economic growth. I am very pleased that Bolivia has embarked upon the path to economic growth without losing its authenticity.
jOURNALIST: What impresses you most about Bolivia, given that it has a very rich culture.
N. KOTZIAS: I arrived at four in the morning. What impressed me was the vibrancy of Bolivia’s culture, the courtesy and smiles of its people. I haven’t met a single person who wasn't very gracious. Long live Bolivia!
July 13, 2018