As a result, Greece is now seen as a model for other Balkan countries - a country that succeeded in escaping its past, and opened up the prospect of a European Balkans. We want to give the Balkans a credible voice. We want to establish a broad consensus regarding the future of our peoples, by initiating a dialogue of equals throughout the Balkan peninsula. Greece Takes the Lead Greece deserves a leading role in the political and economic reconstruction of the Balkans . This role has been officially recognized with the selection of the northern port city of Thessaloniki, designated headquarters of both the Agency for the Reconstruction of South East Europe and the Balkan Stability Pact .
Regional leadership creates an advantage, but also new responsibilities for our country.
Hellenism is being called upon to define a new vision for the Balkan region - a new vision of peace and democracy for a region that has suffered so much through incessant wars.