Michalis Rokas
Michalis Rokas | |
|---|---|
| European Union Ambassador to North Macedonia | |
| Assumed office September 2024 | |
| Preceded by | David Geer |
| Personal details | |
| Born | September 1, 1964 Athens, Greece |
| Citizenship | Greece |
| Alma mater | National and Kapodistrian University of Athens; Université libre de Bruxelles |
| Occupation | Diplomat |
Michalis Rokas (born September 1964) is a European Union diplomat and senior official of the European External Action Service (EEAS), currently serving as the EU Ambassador to North Macedonia. He has held multiple senior diplomatic roles across Asia-Pacific and the Balkans, with influence on EU enlargement, trade negotiations, and regional diplomacy.
Early life and education
Rokas was born in Athens, Greece. He holds a bachelor's degree in Economics from the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens and a postgraduate degree in European Economics from the Free University of Brussels (ULB). He is fluent in Greek, English, French, and German.[1][2]
Diplomatic career
Rokas began his diplomatic career in 1994 with the European Commission’s Directorate-General for External Relations. Over the decades, he has represented the European Union in various senior positions globally.
EU postings
- EU Ambassador to North Macedonia (September 2024–present): As EU Ambassador, he is actively engaged with North Macedonia’s institutions and civil society, reaffirming the EU’s commitment to the country’s accession process. He regularly participates in dialogue on regional cooperation, rule of law, and constitutional reform.[3][4][5][6]
- EU Ambassador to Malaysia (December 2020–August 2024): Actively promoted trade, environmental diplomacy, and EU–Malaysia relations. He was a key figure in advocating the restart of Malaysia-EU FTA negotiations.[7][8]
- Head of Support to Delegations Division, EEAS (2017–2020): Responsible for overseeing the operational, HR, and logistical support for over 140 EU delegations worldwide.[9]
- Head of EU Delegation to New Zealand (Chargé d'Affaires) (2016–2017): Led diplomatic engagement and advanced EU interests in Oceania.[10]
- Deputy Head, China, Hong Kong, Macao, Taiwan, and Mongolia Division, EEAS (2011–2016): Oversaw relations with major East Asian economies and coordinated strategic dialogues.[11]
- First Secretary, European Commission Office in Hong Kong and Macau (2005–2011): Managed bilateral relations and regional economic diplomacy.[11]
Recognition and impact
Rokas has been widely recognised for his diplomatic effectiveness and regional influence:
- His support for Sarawak’s green economy was highlighted by Malaysian Investment Development Authority, aligning with EU climate objectives.[12]
- He was a keynote speaker at strategic forums like The Cooler Earth Summit and KSI Asia, representing the EU’s climate and geopolitical priorities.[13]
- His contributions in Malaysia included vaccine diplomacy, support for the EU–Malaysia Partnership and Cooperation Agreement, progress on Free Trade Agreement talks, and initiatives in biodiversity and sustainable palm oil.[14]
References
- ↑ "About the Ambassador". European External Action Service.
- ↑ "H.E. Michalis Rokas". KSI Strategic Institute. 30 May 2022.
- ↑ "EU Ambassador Rokas presents his credentials". European External Action Service.
- ↑ "New EU ambassador arrives in Skopje". European Newsroom. 4 September 2024.
- ↑ "Rokas stresses North Macedonia-Bulgaria cooperation". MIA. 13 February 2025.
- ↑ "EU Ambassador Rokas discusses Constitutional Court". European Newsroom. 15 February 2025.
- ↑ "Decision to restart Malaysia-EU FTA talks imminent, says envoy". Bernama. 11 August 2024.
- ↑ "Terima kasih for the memories". Free Malaysia Today. 30 August 2024.
- ↑ "Senior nominations announced". EEAS.
- ↑ "Cooler Earth Summit Speaker Profile". Cooler Earth Summit.
- ↑ 11.0 11.1 "About the Ambassador". EEAS.
- ↑ "Sarawak's green economy move aligns with EU goals". MIDA. 22 March 2023.
- ↑ "Cooler Earth Summit 2021". Cooler Earth.
- ↑ "Terima kasih for the memories". Free Malaysia Today. 30 August 2024.
External links
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