The Mayor of Kalamata, Thanasis Vasilopoulos, recently met with Australian Federal MP Steve Georganas in a courtesy visit that underscored the enduring ties between the city and the Greek diaspora in Australia.
Georganas, a senior Labor Member of Parliament representing Adelaide and of Messinian descent himself, was welcomed at Kalamata Town Hall on Tuesday, July 14. His roots trace back to the nearby village of Sperchogeia, giving the meeting both personal and political significance.
Discussions between the two officials focused on deepening engagement with the Greek Australian community, particularly through the long-standing sister-city relationship between Kalamata and the City of West Torrens in South Australia.
Both sides recognised the strong presence of Messinians in Australia and discussed ways to further involve the younger generations of the diaspora in cultural and civic life in the Peloponnese.
The Mayor reportedly expressed a clear intent to build on these connections, saying he is committed to strengthening the city’s relationship with Greeks abroad.
Coinciding with the visit, Kalamata also marked the launch of the 17th annual Summer School of Greek Language and Culture, aimed at young people of Greek heritage. The initiative, a collaboration between the Pan-Messinian Federation of USA and Canada, the University of the Peloponnese, and the Municipality of Kalamata, began on Friday, July 11, at the University’s local campus.
This year, fifteen young participants of Greek descent are taking part in the program, which continues to play a key role in preserving cultural identity and reinforcing the bond between Greece and its global diaspora.
Source: tovima.com
