On Thursday, May 23, Metropolitan Iakovos of Mexico, Exarch of Central America and the Caribbean Islands, addressed the House of Representatives in Mexico on the occasion of the 85th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Greece and Mexico. The celebration followed a Divine Liturgy at the Cathedral of Hagia Sophia in Mexico City.
The event was organized by the Group for Bilateral Relations between Greece and Mexico to honor the longstanding friendship between the two nations. Speakers included Metropolitan Iakovos, Mario Rodriguez Carillo (President of the Group), Nikolaos Kotrokois (Ambassador of the Hellenic Republic to Mexico), and Edgar Gomez (Chargé d’affaires, who joined via Zoom). Additionally, Greek professor Annie Chrysomalakou read “Ithaca,” a poem by the renowned Greek poet Konstantinos Cavafy.
In his speech, Metropolitan Iakovos reflected on the historical significance of the diplomatic ties established in 1938. “While Europe experienced turbulence and heartbreak in 1938, our two great nations set an example of unity to the world by establishing diplomatic relations,” he remarked. “What do diplomatic relations symbolize? A promise of dialogue between nations, and since 1938, our countries have upheld this promise.”
Metropolitan Iakovos also delved into the deeper connection between Greece and Mexico, despite the geographical distance. “No one knows exactly what brought our two countries together. It could be our ancient histories, the blood of our ancestors, our shared experiences of oppression under imperial regimes, or our common Christian faith that has shaped our identities as free nations. Any Greek who sees Our Lady of Guadalupe is reminded of Greece’s own history of independence, marked by the celebration of the Annunciation of the Theotokos. Miraculous icons of the Theotokos continue to bless cities and villages throughout our nation.”
Accompanying Metropolitan Iakovos were Bishop Athenagoras of Myrina, Vicar of the Caribbean Islands, and Archimandrite Philaret, Vicar General of the Metropolis of Mexico. The event showed the enduring bonds and shared values between Greece and Mexico, celebrating a legacy of unity and dialogue.
Translated by: Konstantinos Menyktas
