Dionysia-Theodora Avgerinopoulou, Chair of the Environment Committee of the Hellenic Parliament and the Greek Prime Minister’s Envoy for the Ocean, recently secured her third mandate as Chair of the Circle of Mediterranean Parliamentarians for Sustainable Development (COMPSUD). A candidate for Secretary-General of the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU), Avgerinopoulou sits down with Ahram Online to discuss the strategic depth of Greek-Egyptian relations and her vision for parliamentary diplomacy.
Ahram Online (AO): You were recently elected for a third term as Chair of COMPSUD. What does this renewed mandate signify for your mission?
Dionysia-Theodora Avgerinopoulou (DTA): It is both an honour and a profound responsibility. The Mediterranean is the cradle of civilizations that shaped Western history; from Alexandria to Athens, it has functioned as a space for dialogue and trade. This third chairmanship confirms our collective commitment to parliamentary diplomacy as a bridge for stability in a complex geopolitical climate. Today, we must move from fragmentation toward joint strategic planning to address water scarcity, food insecurity, and the energy transition.
AO: How would you characterize the current state of bilateral relations between Athens and Cairo?
D-TA: Relations are at their strongest level in modern history. Our partnership is strategic and rooted in mutual respect. The 2020 agreement on the delimitation of maritime zones was a landmark achievement, proving that sovereign states can harmonize complex issues through international law. Beyond agreements, our relationship is a partnership of vision resting on key pillars. In energy, the GREGY project will connect North African renewable energy to European markets, while our security cooperation reflects a shared commitment to counter-terrorism. Furthermore, we are expanding economic ties in shipping and infrastructure, deepening climate resilience initiatives, and maintaining the cultural bridges that have long existed through the Greek community in Alexandria.
AO: Regarding water security, where do you see the greatest potential for closer cooperation?
D-TA: Greece and Egypt can lead in water efficiency technologies and renewable-powered desalination. Water should be an area of shared innovation rather than instability. By organizing joint efforts in waste management and depollution, we can ensure the prosperity of our regional populations.
AO: What is your assessment of Egypt’s role in global parliamentary cooperation?
D-TA: Egypt is a central Mediterranean anchor. Its leadership within the Arab world and Africa provides a unique bridging role. I welcome a strengthened collaboration between COMPSUD and the Egyptian Parliament, particularly regarding the blue economy and climate diplomacy.
AO: As a candidate for the IPU Secretary-General, what is your message to the Arab Group?
D-TA: The Arab Group is a central pillar of the IPU. If elected, I will ensure greater linguistic and cultural inclusivity. I firmly believe that Arabic—as a premier language of science and diplomacy—deserves full recognition within global governance. I intend to foster a structured dialogue between the IPU and Arab regional organizations to maximize the visibility of their initiatives and ensure Arab parliamentary voices are heard globally.
AO: How can parliaments effectively address climate and water stress?
D-TA: Parliaments are uniquely positioned to ensure that national commitments are funded and socially inclusive. We must formalize legislative frameworks that enhance oversight of desalination and wastewater reuse. My work consistently promotes the "Water-Energy-Food-Ecosystems" nexus to address the defining challenges of the 21st century and to mobilize necessary climate finance for adaptation.
AO: In an era of shifting geopolitics, how does parliamentary diplomacy remain relevant?
D-TA: It serves as a vital channel when executive diplomacy stalls. The IPU must evolve into a strategic, policy-shaping institution that keeps dialogue open during times of tension and achieves successes that executive channels might miss.
AO: What is your advice for young women entering the fields of diplomacy and science?
D-TA: Parliaments must create inclusive spaces for women. My advice is to invest heavily in education; it is the primary vehicle for empowerment. Additionally, young women must remain "AI savvy" to ensure they are not left behind in the digital age, allowing them to socialize and lead in co-shaping our future.
AO: Finally, what is your broader vision for the Mediterranean?
D-TA: A stable, cooperative, and prosperous region where energy transitions are equitable, and youth find opportunities at home. The Mediterranean must utilize its common institutions to become an exemplary model of cooperative governance and healthy environmental management.
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