The Board of the World Hellenic Inter-Parliamentary Association (PADEE) paid an official visit to the Thessaloniki Government House on Wednesday, January 14, where it was received by Greece’s Deputy Minister of the Interior for Macedonia and Thrace, Konstantinos Gkioulekas.
The delegation comprised elected MPs and senators of Greek descent from abroad – three from the United States, two from Canada and two from Australia (Federal Member for Adelaide Steve Georganas and Victorian Member for Northcote Kat Theophanous).
They were first guided through the Government House’s historical exhibition before holding discussions with the minister on matters of shared interest.
Gkioulekas highlighted the pivotal role of the Greek diaspora, describing it as “another Greece beyond the national borders.” He stressed that Greeks living abroad remain deeply connected to the homeland, often thriving in their adopted countries while continuing to serve as trusted representatives of Hellenism.
Particular emphasis was placed on the growing number of diaspora Greeks elected to parliaments worldwide, whom he described as Greece’s most effective ambassadors.
Discussions focused on coordination and the exchange of views on key national and international issues, including foreign relations, energy cooperation, cultural exchange and broader geopolitical developments.
Gkioulekas underlined the importance of joint advocacy, noting that Greece and its diaspora can advance Hellenic interests together – Athens from within the country, and diaspora representatives from the nations in which they serve.
Members of the delegation echoed these sentiments, describing the global Greek community as a strong bridge linking Greece with the wider world.
Speaking on behalf of the US delegation, Rhode Island State Senator Leonidas Raptakis praised Thessaloniki as a hub of growth and innovation, pointing to the presence of major multinational companies as evidence of the region’s momentum.
Mr Raptakis also highlighted the role of parliamentary diplomacy in strengthening Greece–US cooperation across sectors including health, the economy, tourism and education.
Canadian MP Annie Koutrakis spoke of the enduring bond between diaspora Greeks and their ancestral homeland, while noting her legislative work in Canada to formally recognise March as Hellenic Heritage Month.
From Australia, federal MP Mr Georganas reflected on the global reach of Hellenism and the strength of Greek life in Australia, particularly in Melbourne, underscoring the diaspora’s ongoing commitment to preserving language, faith and cultural identity.
The visit reaffirmed the diaspora’s institutional engagement with Greece and its role as a lasting bridge of national continuity, international influence and shared future.
