In his address to the Holy Community of Mount Athos, Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis described Mount Athos as a “beacon of spirituality that has illuminated the path of faith and our nation for over a millennium” and a “timeless, enduring value” in a constantly changing world, distinguished by deep spirituality and international influence. The speech was delivered today at noon in the Holy Community Hall in Karyes, in the presence of government officials and Mount Athos’s civil administration.
Mr. Mitsotakis also announced over ten initiatives, beginning with increasing the annual financial support from two to three million euros. He also approved nine million euros for restoring damage caused by the recent major earthquake and unveiled measures to strengthen infrastructure, preserve sacred relics, and resolve long-standing issues facing the monastic community.
The Prime Minister emphasized that safeguarding the universal and ecumenical character of Mount Athos is a national duty. He also underlined the “weighty responsibility” of the Greek state to protect the historical rights and spiritual activities of the monastic community, “always based on its governing charter.”
“Here, the voice of Greece takes on a new tone and intensity, resonating in the hearts of all Orthodox Christians. It becomes a multiplier of soft power with a global reach, affecting the Balkans, the deeply afflicted Middle East, Europe, the New Lands, and the United States of America. Therefore, we are not merely speaking of a part of our tradition, but rather, a treasure of global significance. That is why preserving its universal character is a national obligation. At the same time, however, it is also a grave responsibility toward future generations,” he noted.
In a more personal tone, the Prime Minister spoke of the profound spiritual influence the monastic community has had on him, his family, and now his son, who accompanied him on this visit. He added:
“Everyone must understand that Mount Athos is not a place to exert influence for ulterior motives. Even within our borders, it is clear that its sacred radiance cannot be dimmed by opportunism that attempts to imprison faith in cheap political garb.”
The Prime Minister stressed the powerful message that Mount Athos must send in today’s world, one that is becoming increasingly relevant in a rapidly changing global landscape.
“In this unstable international environment, the message from this place must be one of truth, fidelity to tradition, and open-mindedness – responding with composure to extreme and timely challenges. By allowing the organized state to manage its affairs, religion confirms its great power to unite people beyond worldly doctrines and spiritually uplift its citizens,” said Mr. Mitsotakis.
“Allow me to be more specific,” he continued. “The state and the government I have the honor of leading are attentive to issues concerning the welfare and future of Mount Athos.” These issues are not only administrative or financial, but also deeply intertwined with our spiritual heritage. Above all, we honor the monastic community’s self-governance, never interfering while maintaining our historical obligation to never neglect it.”
The Prime Minister spoke of planned projects in the monastic community totaling 100 million euros by 2030. These projects will be funded primarily through European sources but also national funds if needed. He also mentioned smaller projects, such as renovating the Athoniada School, digitizing sacred relics, and constructing new facilities for the Police Directorate in Karyes. This initiative has a budget of nearly 2 million euros, which has already been secured.
Mr. Mitsotakis made special mention of Christians in the Middle East, as well as the Monastery of Saint Catherine in Sinai.
“Trust us – there is absolutely no question of this monastery’s character being altered. We are in consultation with the Egyptian government to ensure this is legally safeguarded for centuries to come,” said the Prime Minister. He added:
“Of course, it is our obligation to stand with all Orthodox Christians in the Middle East who suffer from conflicts, wars, and bloodshed. Greece today—and I’m glad you mentioned it—is a force for stability in the wider region. This diplomatic strength largely stems from the fact that our country is now firmly on its feet. Rest assured, it will be exercised for the benefit of not only the Greek people, but also all Orthodox Christians in the broader Middle East.”
Translated by Ioanna Georgakopoulou
