Farewell to Ioannis Ziagas: A Lifelong Advocate for Mediterranean Progress

The Foundation for Mediterranean Studies – MeDiterrate bids a solemn farewell to Ioannis Ziagas, a distinguished politician and dedicated advocate for regional development.

His unwavering commitment to democracy, economic cooperation, and sustainable growth left a lasting impact on Greece and the broader Mediterranean region.

Born in Trikala in 1940, Ziagas studied civil engineering at the Graz University of Technology before pursuing postgraduate studies in political economy and economic planning in Vienna.

A founding member of the Panhellenic Socialist Movement – PASOK party, he played a key role in Greece’s political transition, serving as a Member of the European Parliament (1982–1984) and later as a Member of the Hellenic Parliament (1985–1993, 1996–2000).

Beyond politics, he held leadership roles in key industrial and banking sectors, always striving for economic resilience and regional development. He served as President of the defense industries Steyr-Hellas (ELVO) and PYRKAL, contributing to national industrial policy. From 1993 to 1996, he was Deputy Governor of the National Bank of Greece, overseeing critical financial strategies. Later, from 2005 to 2015, he acted as a Special Advisor to the President of the Hellenic Republic, Karolos Papoulias.

For many years, Ioannis Ziagas was an active member of the Foundation for Mediterranean Studies, contributing significantly as a member of the Board of Directors.

At the Foundation for Mediterranean Studies – MeDiterrate, we honor his legacy and his vision for a prosperous Mediterranean.

His dedication to public service and regional cooperation will remain an inspiration.

Sincere condolences to his family, friends, and colleagues.