Australia’s Deputy Ambassador-designate to Greece David Kilham met with the president of the Greek Community of Melbourne (GCM), Bill Papastergiadis and vice-president Tammy Iliou on 31 March.
Mr Kilham, who begins his posting to Athens next month, heard about some of the important issues affecting Greek Australians as well as the opportunities that were available for Greece and Australia to deepen cultural and economic ties.
Mr Papastergiadis encouraged Mr Kilham to raise the issue of double taxation with Greece’s Minister for Foreign Affairs, Nikos Dendias and with the Minister for Greeks abroad, Kostas Vlasis.
“Bilateral cooperation between Australia and Greece needs to be a priority and the GCM is keen to see the finalisation of this matter. The GCM will continue to apply pressure until there is resolution,” said Mr Papastergiadis.
He also drew attention to the need to examine the issue of visas to Greek citizens. He said it was important that, in view of the strong connection between Greece and Melbourne, the pathway remained open for Greek professionals and students to work and study in Australia.
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Ms Iliou provided an overview of the cultural arm of the GCM.
“It is important that as soon as is practical, once travel restrictions allow, that cultural links between Greece and Melbourne are re-established, as well as with the Greek community across Australia. The links include theatrical and musical tours, art exhibitions, student exchanges and school camps,” she said. Ms Iliou invited Mr Kilham to coordinate with the GCM on cultural proposals that were presented to him during his posting in Athens.
At the end of the visit, Mr Papastergiadis and Ms Iliou wished Mr Kilham every success with his new posting.