Athens celebrated Australia Day with an official function on Wednesday 1 February at the Australian embassy in Athens.
The Ambassador to Australia in Greece Jenny Bloomfield addressed the dignitaries which included: Deputy minister of Defence George Georgiou; Deputy Minister for Development, Competitiveness and Shipping Adonis Georgiadis; parliamentarians from all political parties; diplomats; as well as the Army Commander, Vice Admiral Kosmas Christidis.
Those present had the opportunity to see two exhibitions currently showing at the Australian Embassy in Athens which explore the close ties developed between Australians and Greeks during both World Wars and the contribution of the Greek migrants to Australian society.
In her speech, Ms Bloomfield highlighted the ongoing friendship between Greece and Australia, due to shared values and the ongoing commitment to work together in partnership. She also celebrated the 60th anniversary of post-war Greek migration to Australia.
“Through time our nations have formed unbreakable bonds,” Ms Bloomfield said. “These bonds are felt especially keenly as Greece confronts difficult economic times. During these times, Australia stands by Greece and is prepared to help in any way we can. We are certain that Greece will succeed and will emerge from the crisis even stronger than before.”