Papoulias met with German counterpart Gauck

Papoulias said he paid particular attention to Gauck's recent statements during a meeting on Security in Munich, highlighting the new responsibilities of all parties for international security.

"Germany can play an important role to that direction, so can Greece in its region. We stand side-by-side on the path of peace," he pointed out.

Gauck mentioned the aim of his visit was to demonstrate solidarity to a historic place. "I would like to confirm the long-standing friendship between the two countries, which may have be overshadowed by recent incidents and discussions, but it still remains strong," he said.

"I would like to talk with people on a different modern Germany, as the two people's ties have a long history. This history yesterday was confirmed in Acropolis," Gauck said, adding "I want you to know, when I was 15, in what was then a communist and dictatorial East Germany, I learnt ancient Greek.