Australian and Greek politicians and diplomats united in an event of solidarity between the two nations as all commemorated the 203rd anniversary of Greek Independence Day at NSW Parliament.
The reception, organised by the Consulate General of Greece, took place on Monday evening with the unique twist of also having in attendance Greece’s Alternate Minister of Interior, Theodoros Livanios, adding an extra dimension to the annual events held in Sydney.
Ioannis Mallikoutis, Consul General of Greece in Sydney and the host of the reception, extended his gratitude to all the politicians, diplomats, and representatives of various community organisations present, stating that:
“We celebrate resilience, perseverance and commitment of our ancestors poor and largely illiterate peoples which rediscovered its glorious past and decided to become free, ultimately succeeding against all odds.”
He also warmly thanked his colleagues at the Consulate for their contributions in organising the event and also the NSW Parliament for hosting it.
Mr Livanios built on Mr Mallikourtis’ subsequent remarks regarding the strong ties between the two nations, expressing his admiration for the strength of the bond that has seen the two countries on the same side of history throughout many periods, including the two World Wars.
He heaped praise on the Archbishop Makarios and the community here which has greatly impressed him during his visit.
“I am very proud of the Greek diaspora here and the Greek-Australians,” the Greek politician said.
Archbishop Makarios extended his own appreciation for Mr Livanios, and stressed the significance of two major events synonymous with March 25, Greek Independence Day and the Feast of the Annunciation.
“With deep emotion, we look back on these two great, historical events to which we owe our freedom as people and as Greeks.”
The Governor of NSW, Margaret Beazley, spoke glowingly on the legacy of the Greek people, especially regarding their creation of the concept of democracy, before highlighting her appreciation for the slogan “Ελευθερία ή Θάνατος” (Freedom or Death).
“The words demonstrated to me not only what Greece went through to get its independence but the determination for which you fought to get it all those 203 years ago…They struck my heart,” Ms Beazley said.
Steve Kamper, NSW Minister for Multiculturalism, Small Business, Lands and Property, and Sport, represented the NSW Premier Chris Minns at the event and pointed out in his speech the major role played by the church during the years of occupation in preserving the language and culture.
“We must appreciate how important the Church was, not just to achieving our independence but because of the work it did in the nearly 400 years of occupation with the hidden schools and hidden churches,” Mr Kamper (Σταύρος Καμπερογιάννης) said.
The event was emceed by Greek-Australian Paul Kaletsis.
Among those present were the President of the Greek Orthodox Community of NSW Harry Danalis, NSW Ministers Courtney Houssos and Sophie Cotsis, along with many other Ministers and MPS, diplomats from other countries, representatives of local government and other members of our community.