During the regular briefing for diplomatic correspondents, Greek Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lana Zochiou referred to the recent visit of the Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew to Athens, and to the luncheon hosted in his honour by Foreign Minister Giorgos Gerapetritis on Thursday, 7 May.
She noted that: “The two discussed issues concerning the Greek diaspora, the Greek community of Constantinople and the Ecumenical Patriarchate, as well as the Halki Theological School. Mr Gerapetritis reaffirmed the Greek state’s support for the institution and mission of the Ecumenical Patriarchate.”
The Foreign Minister emphasised the importance that Greece attaches to protecting Christian populations worldwide, particularly in the Middle East, and expressed his support for the ancient Apostolic Patriarchates. Finally, he emphasised that Greece always prioritises safeguarding the rights of religious and ethnic communities and supports every effort to effectively protect religious and cultural heritage.
