The Greek Orthodox Community of New South Wales (GOCNSW) hosted the Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Hellenic Republic, His Excellency Ioannis-Michail Loverdos, and his distinguished delegation at its headquarters in Lakemba on Tuesday, 7 October 2025.
Mr Loverdos is the first Deputy Minister for the Diaspora to visit Australia and New Zealand, marking a significant milestone in Greece’s efforts to strengthen ties with Hellenes abroad.
The meeting took place in an atmosphere of warmth and mutual respect, with both parties engaging in a meaningful exchange of views on matters concerning the Greek diaspora in Australia and its enduring connection with the homeland.
Mr Loverdos expressed his appreciation for the opportunity to meet with the Board of Directors of the Greek Orthodox Community of NSW and to hear firsthand about the issues affecting Greek Australians.
“We came here fully informed and determined to address the challenges facing the diaspora in Australia,” he stated.
“The Prime Minister of Greece is committed to building stronger bridges with the Greek communities of Australia and New Zealand. This is of great importance to me personally, to the Prime Minister, and to the Government as a whole. We need all of you in Australia to support Greece – and for Greece, in turn, to support you.”
He also announced the Government’s intention to establish 29 April, the birth date of Greek poet Konstantinos Kavafis, as the National Day of the Diaspora, in recognition of the invaluable role the Greek diaspora plays in preserving and promoting Hellenism worldwide.
Harry Danalis, President of the GOCNSW, welcomed the Deputy Minister and his delegation, noting the Community’s long-standing history, its pivotal role in supporting Greek Australians, and the wide range of services it provides.
He highlighted the importance of ongoing cooperation in areas such as education, cultural initiatives, voting rights, and consular services, reaffirming the Community’s commitment to advocating for the needs and interests of Greek Australians.
“Our goal is to continue representing the needs and aspirations of our community and to strengthen our shared bonds with Greece,” Mr Danalis added.
Nia Karteris, Secretary of the GOCNSW and Chair of the Greek Festival of Sydney, spoke about the success of the Greek Festival of Sydney and the Greek Film Festival, which this year celebrates its 30th anniversary.
She emphasised their vital role in promoting Greek culture and heritage among the diaspora and in strengthening the connection between Greek Australians and their homeland.
In response, Deputy Minister Loverdos praised the Festival’s cultural contribution and affirmed that the Greek Government will ensure it receives the recognition and support it rightfully deserves.
Chris Belerhas, Treasurer of the GOCNSW, highlighted the significance of soft diplomacy through, cultural events, language and sport, noting that such initiatives strengthen community ties and promote Greek culture and values among both Greek Australians and the broader society.
Following the meeting, the Community hosted an official dinner in honour of the Deputy Minister and his delegation, during which commemorative gifts were presented as a token of appreciation.
The Deputy Minister was accompanied by senior officials from the Hellenic Republic, including Athanasios Balermpas, Secretary General for Home Affairs and Organisation at the Ministry of the Interior; Dimitrios Karnavos, Secretary General for Citizenship at the Ministry of the Interior; Aikaterini Ouli; Zoi Tsirakopoulou; Alexandros Arapetsikas; and Georgios Apanomeritakis.
Also in attendance were His Excellency Stavros Venizelos, Ambassador of Greece to Australia; George Skemperis, Consul General of Greece in Sydney; Athanasios Lambrou, Press Counsellor at the Consulate General of Greece; and Anastasia Christofilopoulou, First Secretary for Public Diplomacy at the Consulate General of Greece in Sydney.
