Pope and Patriarch Theodore II of Alexandria and All Africa welcomed the Governor of Alexandria, Mr. Ayman Ateya, to the Patriarchate of Alexandria on Thursday, June 4, 2026, for an official visit focused on strengthening cooperation and advancing major educational, cultural, and social initiatives for the benefit of the city and its residents.
The Governor was received in the Patriarchal Throne Hall in the presence of his advisers and Bishop Damaskinos of Mareotis, Patriarchal Vicar of Alexandria.
During the meeting, both sides emphasized the historic ties between Egypt and Greece and discussed the Patriarchate’s plans for significant development projects. Special attention was given to Alexandria’s enduring role as a bridge between cultures and a meeting point for peoples, religions, and traditions.
Patriarch Theodore expressed his joy at the visit, describing Alexandria as a beacon of culture, history, and humanity. He also spoke of his deep attachment to the city whose name he bears as Patriarch and praised the ongoing development projects taking place across Egypt under the leadership of President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi.
The Patriarch presented two major initiatives envisioned by the Patriarchate for the coming years. The first is the construction of a modern hospital designed to serve the people of Alexandria, while the second involves the restoration of the historic Averoff Girls’ School building, which is planned to be transformed into an international academic and cultural center in cooperation with Greek universities. The project aims to promote education, culture, and international collaboration while restoring Alexandria’s historic role as a center of learning in the Eastern Mediterranean.
Governor Ateya expressed his appreciation for Patriarch Theodore and the Patriarchate of Alexandria, noting that the Patriarch’s presence is an honor for the city. He highlighted the longstanding friendship between the peoples of Egypt and Greece and praised the contributions of the Greek community to Alexandria’s history and cultural identity. He also commended the Patriarchate’s extensive humanitarian, educational, and healthcare work throughout Africa.
Following the meeting, the Patriarch and the Governor visited the historic Averoff building, where they reviewed plans for its restoration and future operation as a center of international academic and cultural significance.
They also toured a Patriarchal property on Fouad Street, near the Patriarchal Monastery of Saint Savvas, where a new hospital is planned. The project will include outpatient clinics, specialized medical units, surgical facilities, and modern diagnostic centers aimed at enhancing healthcare services in Alexandria.
The visit concluded at the Patriarchal Monastery of Saint Savvas, where the Governor was guided through the monastery complex and informed about the educational work carried out through the Patriarchal School of Saint Athanasius for students from across Africa. He also had the opportunity to meet African students and monks and expressed his satisfaction with their presence in Alexandria.
