The Premier of Western Australia, Mark McGowan, held a morning tea at Parliament House this morning to celebrate the historic first visit of Greece’s Presidential Guard to the state.
The morning tea was attended by a number of official guests and dignitaries including the Consul of Greece in Perth, Georgia Karasiotou; His Grace Bishop Elpidios of Kyanea; and Vice Admiral Efthymios Mikros.
A number of speeches were given during the event by Mr McGowan, Ms Karasiotou; Mr Mikros and Evzones Captain Panagiotis Karkatzoulis – Kalamata.
In his speech, Mr McGowan welcomed the Evzones to WA, spoke about the Greek community’s contribution to the state and stressed the “remarkable intertwined history” between Greece and Australia.
“This is quite an honour to have you in WA and as I understand, this is the first time Greece’s Presidential Guard has visited Western Australia. So thank you for making us a part of your itinerary,” the Premier said.
Next to the stage was Ms Karasiotou who spoke about the importance of the Evzones’ visit to WA to mark OXI Day and the “lasting bonds” between Greece and Australia.
Mr Mikros also spoke and conveyed the well wishes of Greece’s President Katerina Sakellaropoulou, whilst Captain Karkatzoulis spoke briefly about the history behind the uniform of the Evzones.
After this morning tea, there will be a procession of the Evzones on St Georges Terrace, from the Consulate of Greece in Perth, followed by a flag-raising ceremony in front of the Council House this afternoon.
*All photos copyright The Greek Herald / Argyro Vourdoumpa.
READ MORE: Program released for the Evzones’ first-ever visit to Perth for OXI Day commemorations.
