French President Emmanuel Macron has cancelled a visit to Greece where he was expected to attend celebrations on March 25 commemorating the bicentennial of the beginning of the country’s War of Independence in 1821.
The President’s decision was influenced by the recent spike in COVID-19 cases in France, wth the government imposing a month-long lockdown on Paris and parts of northern France.
The Prince of Wales and the Duchess of Cornwall confirmed on the same day that they will be attending Greece’s bicentennial celebrations.
The visit comes at the request of the British Government and follows an invitation from Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis, Clarence House said in a press release.
“The Royal Household will take all necessary measures to comply with COVID-19 regulations and guidance in Athens during the course of this event,” Clarence House said in a statement.
According to Ekatherimini, the two royals will attend a reception at the newly re-opened National Gallery of Greece on the evening of March 24 hosted by President Katerina Sakellaropoulou, a wreath laying at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Syntagma Square and a traditional military parade on the March 25.
Charles and Camilla last visited Greece in May 2018. The prince’s very first visit to Greece was in 1998.
Prime Minister of the Russian Federation Mikhail Misustin and the President of Cyprus Republic Nicos Anastasiades are also expected to attend the celebration.
