Diplomatic Relations between the Greek Orthodox and Roman Catholic Churches, 2001–2006

This article explores the development of diplomatic relations between the Greek Orthodox Church and the Roman Catholic Church from 2001 to 2006. It focuses particularly on two landmark events: the visit of Pope John Paul II to Athens in May 2001, and the reciprocal visit of Archbishop Christodoulos (Paraskevaidis) of Athens to the Vatican in December 2006. The study examines the stated aims and principal avenues of cooperation pursued by both Churches during this period, including the reaffirmation and safeguarding of the spiritual foundations of European civilisation, joint responses to global challenges in the early 21 st century, and collaboration in educational, scientific, and cultural domains. While longstanding theological and ecclesiastical differences remained, the article highlights a notable broadening of inter- church dialogue and contact during these years, reflecting a cautious but meaningful rapprochement in the context of evolving ecumenical relations.