The new Ambassador of Greece to Australia submitted his credentials last week to the Governor General Quentin Bryce.

Alexis Christopoulos has replaced George Zois who retired in the beginning of September from the diplomatic corps.

In his speech at the official ceremony, Mr Christopoulos spoke about the excellent bilateral relations between Greece and Australia that have as their focal point the strong presence of Greeks in Australia.

The new Greek Ambassador underscored Australia’s important role in the region and Greece’s ever increasing presence in the Asia-Pacific region.

Mr Christopoulos also pointed out that the two nations share blood bonds, having fought side by side as allies in the First and Second World Wars.

He further stressed the pivotal role of Greeks in Australia, as they have contributed immensely to the progress and prosperity of Australia.

During the ceremony the need for the promotion of classical studies in Australia was recognised as a task that Greece would undertake through certain initiatives.

Mr Christopoulos is very familiar with the region having served before as the Greek Ambassador to Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines, Brunei and East Timor.

In his career he has served among others in posts such as Germany, the former Yugoslavia and the United States.

He speaks several languages including, English, French and Italian. Mr Christopoulos is expected to travel to all major Australian cities where he will visit local Greek diplomatic authorities and hold meetings with state officials.