Celebrating Unity and Achievement: President Sakellaropoulou Honors Greek Community in Vienna
By Alexandra Pistofidou / IMP
On Monday, 4th December 2023 , in a momentous gathering that resonated with the vibrant spirit of Greek culture and accomplishment, Her Excellency, the President of the Hellenic Republic, Katerina Sakelaropoulou graced the Greek Embassy in Vienna, Austria, accompanied by the Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, Giorgos Kotsiras.
On this auspicious occasion, HE the President was greeted by esteemed dignitaries, including His Eminence Arsenios, the Metropolite of Austria, Exarch of Hungary and Central Europe, as well as the newly-appointed ambassador, HE Georgios Iliopoulos.
The gathering was further enriched by the presence of notable Greek Community representatives, including Anna Maria, Eirini and Vassiliki Alexandri, who recently won the gold medal at the Global Synchronized Swimming Championships in Japan.
The Ambassador extended a warm welcome to the President, stressing the significance of her visit and its profound impact on the community. He highlighted the historical significance of Vienna as a source of Greek enlightenment and education, emphasizing what role the Greek diaspora played in constructing the modern face of Greece.
Echoing this, President Sakelaropoulou highlighted the longstanding and positive relations between Austria and Greece, emphasizing the shared goals and mutual understanding between the two nations. Highlighting the symbiotic relationship between the two countries in the European Union and through other multilateral platforms, she noted her gratitude for the warm welcome extended by President Alexander Van der Bellen.
Addressing the rich audience of diplomats, artists, scientists and academics, she praised the grand history of the Greek community in Vienna and voiced unwavering support for those who tirelessly represent Greece around the globe, even as they face the bittersweet nostalgia for their homeland, which they balance with the opportunities and love found in their adopted countries. Their impact on fields including science, art, sports, and business, she stressed, was and remains great.
The President conveyed her pleasure at meeting such accomplished individuals and extended them her heartfelt wishes for the New Year, expressing an earnest aspiration for peace in the world.
As Her Excellency departed Vienna, her words echoed the commitment to nurture and celebrate the achievements of the Hellenic community, emphasizing it as materializing the enduring bond between two nations, with pride.
