In an exceptionally cordial atmosphere, the Governor of Alexandria, Ahmed Khalet, warmly received Pope and Patriarch Theodore II of Alexandria and All Africa, at his official residence on April 7, 2025.
The Patriarch was accompanied by the Patriarchal Vicar of Alexandria, Archimandrite Damaskinos.
The purpose of the visit was to convey the festive wishes of the Patriarch to the Governor and through him to the President of the Arab Republic of Egypt, Mr. Abdel Fattah El-Sisi, on the occasion of the upcoming great Muslim feast of Eid Al-Fitr.
The meeting took place in a particularly warm and friendly atmosphere, during which matters of mutual interest were discussed, with special emphasis on the strong ties between Egypt, Greece, and Cyprus. The Primate of the Patriarchal Throne of St. Mark once again expressed his heartfelt gratitude to the President of Egypt for his continued support and goodwill towards the Second Throne Patriarchate – especially for the donation of a large central plot of land in the new administrative capital of Egypt. On this site, buildings are already under construction – funded by a pious Lebanese entrepreneurial family – that will serve both the administrative needs and the modern mission of the ancient Patriarchate, as well as support initiatives that promote the historic ties between the Greek and Egyptian peoples.
The Governor of Alexandria expressed his deep gratitude and respect for the Patriarch – not only as a spiritual leader but also as a distinguished citizen – who enjoys the esteem and affection of both the Alexandrian community and the wider Egyptian society, as well as the country’s authorities.
He also referred to the Patriarch’s numerous journeys throughout almost the entire African continent and expressed his admiration for the great humanitarian and educational work that the Patriarch tirelessly carries out.
At the end of his visit, the Patriarch conferred upon Mr. Ahmed Khalet the high honor of Grand Commander of the Order of the Lion of Saint Mark with a Star, as a sign of honor and recognition for his excellent cooperation with the Old Patriarchate. In return, the Governor presented the Patriarch with the emblem of the Governorate of the Great City with a personal dedication.
It is worth noting that the Patriarch’s visit to the Governor of Egypt’s second-largest city was extensively covered by the country’s radio and television media.
Translated by Ioanna Georgakopoulou
