Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis has delivered a video message to the Greek Australian community marking the 205th anniversary of the Greek War of Independence, expressing regret over his absence while reaffirming the enduring strength of Hellenism across the diaspora.
In his address, Mitsotakis said it was “a true honour” to speak to Greek Australians on such a significant national occasion, while acknowledging he had hoped to attend commemorations in person before his trip was postponed due to escalating developments in the Middle East.
“I really wish I could be with you in person,” he said, noting that the situation in the region requires his presence in Greece as the government works to “protect our citizens, safeguard stability and ensure that our country remains a pillar of peace in a turbulent region.”
Despite his absence, the Prime Minister emphasised that the spirit of the day transcends geography, describing the anniversary not simply as a commemoration, but as “a bridge” connecting Greece’s historic past with the “living heartbeat” of its global diaspora.
He paid tribute to the Greek community in Australia, describing it as “one of the most vibrant and dynamic Greek communities anywhere in the world,” and acknowledged the role of generations who have carried traditions, built institutions, and strengthened cultural identity far from their homeland.
“You have carried our traditions across oceans. You have built families, businesses and institutions that honour your roots,” Mitsotakis said. “Greek identity is not bound by geography, but uplifted by spirit.”
Reflecting on the legacy of 1821, the Prime Minister framed the Greek War of Independence as a universal story of resilience and self-determination.
“The Greek Revolution taught the world that liberty, self-governance and human dignity are not luxuries – they are birthrights,” he said. “Even when the odds are overwhelming, courage can bend the arc of history.”
A key announcement in his address centred on new legislation enabling Greeks abroad to participate more directly in national life. Mitsotakis confirmed that a bill allowing diaspora Greeks to vote by mail in the 2027 national elections has now passed parliament.
“This is not simply a procedural reform. This is a statement that your voice matters, your heritage matters, and your commitment to Greece is valued at the highest level,” he said.
“With one envelope, you will send a message across continents that the fate of Greece belongs to all Greeks.”
The Prime Minister also highlighted the longstanding contribution of the diaspora to Greece’s progress, describing it as a “cornerstone” of the nation’s economic, cultural and diplomatic reach. He singled out Greek communities across Australia – from Melbourne to Sydney to Adelaide – for their role in shaping the country’s multicultural identity.
“You are living proof that Hellenism thrives through continuity,” he said, pointing to the preservation of language, customs and faith as central to that legacy.
Looking ahead, Mitsotakis positioned the anniversary as both a moment of reflection and a call to unity, particularly as Greece continues to move beyond the challenges of its recent economic crisis.
“What is at stake today is not only the memory of our past, but the direction of our future,” he said. “In an uncertain world, our unity is our advantage, our diaspora is our global footprint, and our shared identity is our compass.”
He concluded by thanking Greek Australians for their ongoing connection to the homeland and their role in keeping Hellenism alive abroad.
“May the spirit of 1821 guide us as we build the Greece of tomorrow – confident, united, democratic and open to the world – a Greece worthy of its past and ready for its future,” he said.
