Former President of Uruguay, Luis Alberto Lacalle de Herrera, expressed admiration for the strong ties between Uruguay and Greece during the Concordia Americas Summit in Florida. Lacalle, a philhellene who served as Uruguay’s President from 1990 to 1995, highlighted the shared cultural roots, belonging to Greek-Roman and Christian civilizations. Greek history holds a significant place in Uruguay’s education system, with Greek-themed streets, statues of philosophers, and squares named Greece and Athens in the capital, Montevideo.

Uruguay’s affinity for Greece is rooted in historical ties and immigration. The two nations established strong relations through shipping, as Greek ships frequently docked in Uruguay due to its excellent port. Greek immigrants, arriving in waves starting in the late 19th century, played a vital role in fostering cultural connections. Today, there are over 3,500 second or third-generation Greek immigrants in Uruguay, and the Greek language is taught and promoted by the Maria Tsakos Foundation in Montevideo.

Captain Panagiotis N. Tsakos, a key figure in the Maria Tsakos Foundation, has significantly contributed to strengthening ties between the two nations. The foundation, founded in 1978, teaches the Greek language and promotes Greek culture. It is officially recognized by Uruguay’s Ministry of Education and Culture and collaborates with the public University for teaching Modern Greek language courses.

In February 2023, Nikos Dendias, the Greek Minister of Foreign Affairs, visited Uruguay and acknowledged the Maria Tsakos Foundation’s role in cultural exchange. During his visit, Dendias met with Uruguay’s Foreign Affairs Minister Francisco Bustillo Bonasso, discussing ways to enhance political relations and cooperation in various fields, including economy, environment, investment, shipping, tourism, and culture. Two memoranda of cooperation were signed between the two countries, focusing on diplomatic training and political consultations. The strong historical, cultural, and diplomatic bonds continue to foster collaboration between Uruguay and Greece.