Andreas Grigoriou, Director General of the Ministry of Agriculture, Rural Development and Environment and Head of Administration of the Presidency of the Republic of Cyprus, paid a formal visit to the headquarters of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of Australia (GOAA) in Sydney on Monday, July 28.
Mr Grigoriou is currently in Australia representing Cypriot President Nikos Christodoulides at a series of commemorative events marking 51 years since the Turkish invasion of Cyprus.
During his visit, Mr Grigoriou was warmly welcomed by His Eminence Archbishop Makarios of Australia.
The meeting was held in a cordial and constructive atmosphere and was also attended by the High Commissioner of the Republic of Cyprus in Australia, Antonis Sammoutis, Deputy High Commissioner of the Republic of Cyprus in Australia, Nicholas Varelas, and Father Christophoros Krikellis.
Discussions centred on issues of mutual interest, including the role of the GOAA in supporting the Cypriot diaspora across the country and its broader mission within the Orthodox faith.
The ongoing Cyprus issue was also discussed, with Archbishop Makarios reaffirming his unwavering support for a just and viable solution that ensures the reunification of the island and peaceful coexistence of all its inhabitants.
Mr Grigoriou expressed his appreciation to the Archbishop for his continuous pastoral care for the Cypriot community in Australia and for his enduring advocacy on behalf of the Cypriot people.
As a gesture of gratitude, he presented His Eminence with two commemorative gifts – one from President Christodoulides and another from Archbishop Georgios of New Justiniana and All Cyprus.
Archbishop Makarios thanked Mr Grigoriou for his visit and asked him to convey his warm regards and sincere appreciation to both the President of Cyprus and the Primate of the Church of Cyprus.
