Amid increasing pressure to negotiate an end to the war with Russia, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky received strong support from Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis during a phone call on Friday, February 21.
Mitsotakis reiterated that Ukraine should decide the terms of its peace framework, stating, “Nothing can be decided about Ukraine without Ukraine.”
Spoke on the phone with President @ZelenskyyUa. We discussed the latest developments and I had the opportunity to reaffirm that nothing can be decided for Ukraine without Ukraine. I will join Monday’s leaders’ call marking three years since Russia’s invasion.
He also informed Zelensky that he would participate in a virtual meeting organised by Kyiv on Monday, February 24, to mark the third anniversary of Russia’s invasion.
Zelensky expressed gratitude for Greece’s steadfast support, emphasising on X, “We deeply appreciate the solidarity of the Greek people, Greece’s firm stance in condemning aggression, and its commitment to the principle: ‘Nothing for Ukraine without Ukraine, nothing for Europe without Europe.’”
I spoke with Greek Prime Minister @kmitsotakis and thanked him for Greece’s unwavering support for Ukraine since the beginning of Russia’s full-scale invasion.
We deeply appreciate the solidarity of the Greek people, Greece’s firm stance in condemning aggression, and its…
— Volodymyr Zelenskyy / Володимир Зеленський (@ZelenskyyUa) February 22, 2025
He also highlighted the importance of European involvement in negotiations for a just peace and discussed further cooperation on joint European projects, security, and defence.
Zelensky added that he is counting on Greece’s contributions during its non-permanent membership in the UN Security Council.
Seismic activity on Santorini is expected to continue for an extended period, according to Professor Efthymios Lekkas, head of Greece’s Earthquake Planning and Protection Organisation.
In an interview with ERTNews, he stated, “It will be a prolonged sequence lasting several weeks, possibly even a few months. This type of seismic activity does not subside easily.”
The total number of tremors has already surpassed 20,000, and Lekkas warned that “the risk has not been eliminated, just as the risk is never zero anywhere in Greece.”
While a 6.0-magnitude earthquake remains possible, he stressed the likelihood is much lower.
A team from the Department of Geology at the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens (EKPA), led by Professor Manolis Vasilakis, has been stationed on Santorini since Saturday to assess the risk of landslides.
Photo: Getty Images.
They are using advanced remote sensing technology to identify high-risk areas, as landslides are frequent on the island.
Meanwhile, seismic activity in the sea area of Anydros, between Santorini and Amorgos, is showing signs of recession, as reported by the Permanent Scientific Committee for Seismic Risk Assessment.
The committees also announced that schools on Santorini, Ios, Anafi, and Amorgos will remain closed until February 28, with further decisions to be made at the next meeting.
Seismic activity within the caldera remains stable, though a reduction in ground deformation rates has been observed.
A vibrant celebration of Hellenic culture filled Lonsdale Street on Saturday, February 22, as the Antipodes Festival reached its peak.
Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan took to the stage at 6.30 pm, delivering a passionate speech to a cheering crowd, many waving Greek flags. She called for the return of the Parthenon Marbles, sending a message to 10 Downing Street, London.
Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan (left) with Greek Community of Melbourne President Bill Papastergiadis. All photos copyright The Greek Herald.
“I’ve written to the British Prime Minister and called for the return of the Parthenon Marbles,” she announced, describing them as a “priceless treasure” and a “precious part of the Greek soul.”
She argued that the marbles, “stolen” from Greece, belong in their rightful place, completing the majesty of the Parthenon.
“I look forward to seeing one day at the Parthenon, those marbles where they truly belong,” Allan concluded, while acknowledging the replica at the Greek Centre on Lonsdale Street, created by Kostandinos Vousis and Panagiotis Vasilakis, as a tribute to both Greece and Melbourne’s Greek history.
“It’s an absolute privilege to join you here this evening for the Antipodes festival,” Allan declared, celebrating Greek culture, history, and contributions to the world, from philosophy and science to art, architecture, and the very principles of democracy.
All photos copyright The Greek Herald.
She emphasised the strength and resilience of the Greek diaspora, acknowledging Melbourne’s status as the third largest Greek city outside of Athens and Thessaloniki.
“Whether you’re born in Thornbury or Brunswick, Oakleigh or Lonsdale Street,” Allan stated, “the power of Greek culture and Greek communities is plain to see.”
She also warmly acknowledged the strong presence of Greek members within the Labor caucus, including Minister for Tourism, Sport and Major Events, Steve Dimopoulos MP; Minister for Consumer Affairs and for Local Government, Nick Staikos MP; Member for Northcote, Kat Theophanous MP; and Lee Tarlamis MP, alongside Nina Taylor MP.
The Premier also welcomed the new Consul General of Greece in Melbourne, Dimitra Georgantzoglou, and gave special recognition to Bill Papastergiadis OAM, President of the Greek Community of Melbourne, for his leadership and dedication.
Following her speech, Papastergiadis engaged in a brief conversation with the Premier, asking about a potential future visit to Greece, a question Ms Allan allowed the enthusiastic audience to answer for her, before stating, “Who am I to disagree?”
Earlier in the day, Federal Minister for Skills and Training, Andrew Giles MP, and Minister for Housing and Homelessness, Clare O’Neil MP attended the festival and participated in Greek dancing, while David Davis MP also visited the festival.
The Antipodes Festival in Melbourne roared to life on its first day, offering a vibrant tapestry of Greek culture, music, dance, and food. While the daytime heat kept some at bay, a surge of attendees flooded Lonsdale Street after 6pm, confirming the festival’s Tier 1 status and setting the stage for a spectacular evening that continued until dawn.
Social media buzzed with excitement over Rena Morfi’s electrifying performance. Her energy captivated the crowd as she and fusion band Imam Baildi delivered fresh takes on classic hits, including the world premiere of her new song “Ithaca”, performed with a selection of dancers from the Greek Orthodox Community of Melbourne and Victoria.
All photos copyright The Greek Herald / Mary Sinanidis.
Around the stage, a spontaneous dance party kicked off, as the crowd pulsated to old and new tunes.
Further down the street, younger festival-goers danced the night away to the tunes of DJ Timo, many arriving prepared with Greek flags, adding to the festive atmosphere.
Youth was particularly vibrant with stalls from NUGAS, Go Youth and youth factions of other communities.
People of all ages enjoyed the festival and summer weather.
Throughout the day, 97 diverse market stalls offered unique experiences. At the Pharos stall, Jo Lo Bianco provided valuable advice to Greek parents on preserving the Greek language at home. Litsa Athanasiadis from Pontian Estia shared a message of support for Klavdia and her Eurovision entry, “Asteromata“.
“Klavdia Papadopoulou, we wish you the best. We are proud that you are singing ‘Asteromata,’” Athanasiadis said. “We have translated this song in English, Greek and the Pontian dialogue and are handing out copies today so that others can enjoy it.”
Litsa Athanasiadis from Pontian Estia.Official guests appeared on the main stage throughout the day.
The Panarcadian Association of Melbourne and Victoria stall showcased a unique blend of tradition and modern art. Following the theft of their Kolokotronis flag from the festival last year, the stall featured Warhol-inspired and graffiti-style artworks by Anthony Tartaglia, the same artist whose work adorns George Calombaris’ restaurants. The Association’s president George Kotsirilos has donated a new flag to the club that he kept carefully locked away in his car boot this year.
Warhol-inspired and graffiti-style artworks by Anthony Tartaglia.
The festival’s cooking demonstrations, supported by The Greek Herald, proved a major draw. Attendees travelled from near and far to witness the culinary artistry. Rozelle, a member of the Asian community, shared her enthusiasm for Greek cuisine after attending Philip Vakos’ Ryzogalo segment.
“I came to the festival today just for the cooking shows,” she said. “I want to learn more vegetarian recipes, especially. At home, I love making loukoumades.”
From energetic music and dance performances to engaging cultural activities and mouthwatering food, the first day of the Antipodes Festival showcased the richness and diversity of Hellenic heritage. The two days bring more than 500 performers and are expected to draw more than 100,000 people.
*All photos copyright The Greek Herald / Mary Sinanidis
Meatfare Sunday, observed on the second Sunday before Great Lent, marks the final day for eating meat before the Lenten fast. Many Orthodox communities commemorate the day with special meals, such as a Meatfare Pancake Breakfast, much like Shrove Tuesday in the Latin Rite tradition.
Beyond its connection to food, Meatfare Sunday is also known as the Sunday of the Last Judgment. The gospel reading from Matthew 25:31-46 recounts Christ’s depiction of the final judgment, often called “The Sheep and the Goats.” In this passage, Jesus teaches that acts of kindness—feeding the hungry, welcoming strangers, clothing the needy—are acts of service to Him. Those who neglect these acts are likened to “goats,” facing separation from God’s kingdom.
In the rush of daily life, it is easy to overlook those in need. Meatfare Sunday serves as a moment of reflection: Are we mindful of those struggling around us? Do we reach out to the lonely, the sick, or the hungry? This day encourages self-examination and preparation for the spiritual journey of Lent.
For families, Meatfare Sunday is an opportunity to teach children about compassion and service. Engaging in small acts of mercy—helping a friend, visiting the elderly, or donating to those in need—brings the gospel message to life.
As Lent approaches, Meatfare Sunday reminds us to focus not just on what we give up, but on how we give to others.
Growing up, Eleni Elefterias wasn’t the biggest fan of learning Greek – she was forced to speak Greek at home and she hated going to Greek school.
It wasn’t until she hit her teenage years that she developed a new-found love for the language and its rich history after she experienced a night of Greek music that changed her perception.
Later, she decided to turn her passions into a career by teaching others and writing about it full-time.
Eleni is now a Greek teacher at the NSW School of Languages in Sydney, with more than 40 years in the field, and for the last eight years, has also taken on the title of ‘author.’
In her time as a writer so far, she has written and published five books, with her most recent release being her academic book – ‘Whose is this Song?’.
From music to writing:
Speaking with The Greek Herald, Eleni revealed that before getting into books, her passions for writing stemmed from writing music and lyrics in Greek and in English.
She was just 13 years old when she started her musical journey. During this time, she also learnt how to play guitar and piano.
“When I was growing up, I couldn’t speak Greek, and it wasn’t until my parents forced me to go to a Greek concert in 1972 and I heard the music of Mikis Theodorakis, that I became inspired to learn Greek,” Eleni told The Greek Herald.
“I always say that kids nowadays have to be inspired to want to learn the language and it’s so important that you speak to them in Greek.
“They’ve got to find something that interests them and for me, it was the music, and that’s what inspired my writing and Greek language journey.”
At 25 years old, Eleni was then given a grant from the Australian Council of the Arts to go to Greece and study at two conservatoriums.
“This led to me touring all around Germany, Austria and to islands all over Greece with the composer Thomas Bakalakos, and I honestly had the best time of my life,” Eleni said.
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A passion for writing:
After accomplishing 50 years in the music industry, Eleni said her switch to writing allowed her to get creative and produce works to inspire others.
“I care about writing things that will inspire others to want to search and find the beauty of what Greek literature is,” Eleni said.
“I just want to promote the Greek culture and language in any way that I can, because I believe that if we lose the language, we lose everything and it’s too important to not be saved.
“We’ve got very rich cultural and literary heritage, and we should be so proud of that and promote it as much as we can.”
The Greek author said she has written books for all ages, including four bilingual children’s books to date. They are titled ‘My Grandma is a musician’, ‘When can you play with me?’, ‘I want to learn Greek’ and ‘Visit to the Panathinaiko Stadium’.
Eleni said they explore themes of education, identity, family, travel and just growing up Greek with nostalgic memories of her childhood.
“I decided to write bilingual children’s books so that anyone can read them, you don’t have to be Greek,” she said.
“You can read them using the Greeklish too, so, if someone’s married to a non-Greek, and they want to read to their children in Greek, they can, and it gives the kids the opportunity to hear the Greek language and start to understand it.
“Each book also has a QR code, so parents or anyone reading the books can access a bilingual reading, a Greek reading, and a song or music video that goes along with it.”
As a teacher and author, Eleni said her books have also been great resources for teachers in schools.
‘Whose is this Song’:
In March 2024, Eleni released her book ‘Whose is this Song’ Balkan Nationalism, Greece and Shared Culture’, which was inspired by the documentary film ‘Whose is the Song’ by Adela Peeva.
“It’s a compilation of articles by travel writers, academics (mainly with Greek Australian backgrounds), and experts in their fields of music, film history, politics, and social sciences who dive into nationalism and Greek culture in the Balkans,” she said.
“It is a book for the student, but also for the general reader who is fascinated by books delving into rich cultural heritage and complex history.”
The Greek Australian author said her latest text provides insights to various regions of the Balkans, and showcases the similarities between things like their music, history, food, films, and traditions.
“It is a very inclusive book that’s designed for everybody that wants to learn about the Balkan countries,” Eleni said.
“It goes into Balkan nationalism, Greece, and the shared culture we have.”
The book features writers and academics including Professor Vrasidas Karalis, Dr Alfred Vincent, Professor Nicholas Doumanis, Dr Helen Vatsikopoulos and many more.
Eleni revealed what she hopes readers understand from reading the book.
“The Balkans is such a beautiful place, and I just want people to see that we have a lot of shared culture between us,” she said.
“We make the same foods, we dance the same dances, we wear a lot of the same traditional clothes, we listen to the same music and some of the words are even similar too.”
Eleni’s books are available for purchase via the Greek Orthodox Community of Melbourne, at Bilingual Bookshop in St Peters, at Greek Cargo in Earlwood, and Everest Books in Roselands, Sydney. Digital and hard copies are also available on Amazon.
Niki Louca from My Greek Kitchen shares her favourite recipe for Chocolate and Hazelnut Biscotti with The Greek Herald. You can follow her on Instagram @mygreekkitchen for more!
Ingredients:
2 ½ cups plain flour
½ cup good quality unsweetened cocoa powder
2 ½ tsp baking powder
3 eggs lightly whisked
1 cup granulated sugar
1/3 cup light olive oil
Zest of 2 oranges
¾ cup of roughly chopped hazelnuts
½ cup of dark chocolate (70%) cut into small chunks (I sometimes use Cadbury’s Hazelnut chocolate and roughly chop it up – 180 gm worth). It is nicer using the dark chocolate.
Method:
In a bowl combine the flour, cocoa and baking powder together. Mix to combine with a fork and set aside.
In a stand mixer, add the eggs, oil and sugar together and whisk for 4-5 minutes using the paddle attachment.
Add the flour mixture to the egg mixture and whisk on low till all the flour is combined.
Add your orange zest, dark chocolate and hazelnuts and gently whisk till combined.
Divide dough into 2 portions and with a little cocoa rubbed in your hands, roll each piece of dough into a log of approximately 3cm thickness. Transfer logs onto a baking sheet lined with baking paper. Gently press each log to flatten them a little, making sure you allow enough room between them as they will rise and expand when cooking.
Put tray in your freezer (5-10 minutes) to firm dough a little, then bake in a preheated oven of 160C. Bake for approx. 25-30 minutes, then remove from oven and allow to cool down slightly before you cut them. After about 20 minutes, cut logs into 2 cm thickness on the diagonal, turn them sideways and bake for a further 6-7 minutes, then turn them the other way and bake them on the other side for approx. 6-7 minutes as well.
Remove from oven and allow to cool on the baking sheet. Store in an airtight container.
Greek Koroneiki and flavored olive oils ranked high in the EVOO World Ranking (WR) for 2024. According to its website, which recognized 498 awards for Greece, “the Best Society for EVOOWR 2024 of Greece is Sakellaropoulos Organic Farms.” Moreover, “the Best EVOO for EVOOWR 2024 of Greece is Terra Creta Grand Cru from Melissa-Kikizas S.A. – Terra Creta.”
The EVOO World Ranking is an annual ranking by the World Association of Journalists and Writers of Wines, Liquors and others (WAWWJ). It is based on extra virgin olive oils’ (EVOOs’) and flavored olive oils’ success in the international olive oil competitions selected by the WAWWJ for consideration. The WAWWJ gives award-winning olive oils different numbers of points for prizes they won in different competitions, according to the WAWWJ’s own ranking of the selected competitions.
The Best Greek Olive Oil Company for EVOOWR 2024
Sakellaropoulos Organic Farms was designated the Best Society for EVOOWR 2024 of Greece and the 12th best olive oil company in the world. All five of their extra virgin olive oils were ranked among the top 100 globally, with three among the top 10 Koroneiki variety EVOOs. In addition, as in 2023, Sakellaropoulos was the top-ranked producer of flavored olive oils worldwide.
Overall, the company was credited with 39 awards in 8 contests for their organic extra virgin and flavored olive oils from their farms in Sparta, Laconia. As the company is proud to announce, “Sakellaropoulos Organic Farms have acquired the unique number of 1,045 international awards at prestigious and renowned competitions worldwide, which is an ongoing global record of distinctions for a Greek olive producer (Single Estate & Terroir organic producer).”
Nick Sakellaropoulos emphasized that his family business’s honors highlight the position of Greece “on the global olive growing map.” This is especially true for flavored olive oil. Producing eight of the top 25 flavored olive oils in the world, according to the EVOOWR, Sakellaropoulos Organic Farms helped Greece remain the top country for flavored olive oils globally, as it has been for years.
The Best Greek Extra Virgin Olive Oil and Flavored Olive Oilfor EVOOWR 2024
Terra Creta Grand Cru extra virgin olive oil from Melissa-Kikizas S.A. – Terra Creta was ranked the best Greek extra virgin olive oil. Credited with 28 awards in 22 contests, Terra Creta’s Grand Cru was also listed as the best Koroneiki variety EVOO in the world. In addition, it was among the top five EVOOs globally for the fourth year in a row. Moreover, with its innovative olive mill in Crete, Terra Creta ranked in the top three Greek olive oil companies in the same years.
On top of that, Terra Creta heads the EVOOWR’s list of best flavored olive oils worldwide for 2024. Terra Creta Infusions with Basil is number one, and Terra Creta Infusions with Garlic is also among the top five globally.
Emmanouil Karpadakis believes “deep knowledge, constant commitment, a strong team, flexibility, and the work done by the Terra Creta Olive Academy are the key elements behind this success.” He feels “every single award” they receive “is of high significance, since it not only recognizes the work of our team and the Terra Creta Olive Academy, but in addition reflects the judgment of experienced tasters from different countries.” He mentions the Best in Class, Best Greek EVOO, and World’s Best Koroneiki awards from different competitions as especially noteworthy.
More Greek Olive Oil Companies Ranked Among the Top Five
Although in a transitional stage, The Master Miller P.C. appeared among the three highest-ranked Greek companies for EVOOWR 2024. Formerly known as Papadopoulos Olive Oil and Mediterre Eurofood, this company was listed as the number one Greek olive oil company for five of the last seven years, and among the top four in Greece each year.
Eva Papadopoulou considers a Double Gold Award at the ATHENA International Olive Oil Competition (IOOC), a Platinum at the LONDON IOOC, and a Grand Prestige Gold at the TERRAOLIVO IOOC some of the “most significant accolades” they received in 2024. Papadopoulou pointed out that The Master Miller combines “over three decades of expertise with cutting-edge technology,” prioritizing sustainability, quality, and exceptional flavor. Working near Ancient Olympia in Ilia, they “preserve the authenticity of our local varieties, such as Olympia, Kolireiki, Botsikoelia, and Koroneiki, and share the distinct flavors of our region with the world.”
Another company committed to exceptional quality and sustainable practices ranked among the top five for Greek olive oil: Jordan Olivenöl GmbH. They mainly work with Kolovi and Adramytini olives on the island of Lesbos, where they strive to promote biodiversity and soil health. In their rainfed olive groves, “the climate and soil impart a unique terroir,” according to Bastian Jordan.
The result is “an olive oil with a distinct, full-bodied character.” Jordan feels that their EVOOWR “validates the dedication of our family and small farming partners to excellence, from cultivation to bottling. It inspires us to continue sharing the exceptional quality of our work and Lesbos with the world.”
Additional Extra Virgin and Flavored Greek Olive Oils Ranked High
Laconiko also ranked among the EVOOWR’s top ten for Greece, even without choosing to participate in many competitions in 2024. They are especially proud of Gold awards from the NYIOOC and the ATHENA IOOC for their Koroneiki variety estate extra virgin olive oils from Laconia, Peloponnese. Laconiko was also highly ranked for several of their flavored olive oils.
As Diamantis Pierrakos points out, “Laconiko’s commitment to transparency and quality ensures that our clients can trust the products they are purchasing. We aim to uphold the integrity of our craft by delivering the same exceptional standards to our customers that are recognized in these competitions. Our dedication to authenticity sets us apart in the industry and reinforces our reputation as a reliable source of high-quality olive oil.”
Liokareas is another of Greece’s top 14 EVOO companies, and one of the world’s top five companies for flavored olive oil in the EVOOWR for 2024. Peter Liokareas wishes to highlight their number one ranking for oleocanthal content at the World Best Healthy EVOO Contest in Spain, and their Gold award at the Olympia Health & Nutrition Awards in Greece, both for their high polyphenol extra virgin olive oil. “This recognition validates our unwavering commitment to producing the healthiest olive oil in the world,” Liokareas reported. As he added, it “inspires us to continue pushing boundaries in quality and innovation.”
Liokareas olive oil comes from Koroneiki variety olives grown on the Mani Peninsula in Peloponnese. “By combining old-world practices with cutting-edge research on phenol production,” said Liokareas, “we are not just preserving a legacy—we are advancing the art of olive oil for the future.”
Distinguished Greek Olive Oils from across the Land
Throughout the Greek mainland and the islands, the producers of highly ranked Greek olive oils honor the ancient traditions of their land while embracing modern advances and innovations. This enables them to bring the world flavorful, nutritious extra virgin olive oils made from many traditional olive varieties that reflect their unique terroirs. Greek olive oil producers are also becoming increasingly well known for some of the world’s best flavored olive oil condiments, which offer home cooks and chefs convenient ways to flavor fine dishes and salads.
*Originally published on Greek Liquid Gold: Authentic Extra Virgin Olive Oil (greekliquidgold.com). See that site for recipes with olive oil, photos from Greece, agrotourism and food tourism suggestions, and olive oil news and information.
Christopher Nolan’s upcoming adaptation of Homer’s The Odyssey is already drawing criticism for historical inaccuracies. The highly anticipated film, set for release on July 17, 2026, will star Matt Damon as Odysseus alongside Tom Holland, Zendaya, Robert Pattinson, Lupita Nyong’o, Anne Hathaway, and Charlize Theron, according to tovima.com and au.news.yahoo.com
Universal Pictures recently released the first image of Damon in character, wearing a cape, wrist armor, and a Spartan-style helmet with a red plume. However, this design choice has sparked backlash, with many pointing out that Odysseus’ helmet in Homer’s epic was made of boar tusks. One user on X commented, “This helmet is like cocaine to costume designers,” while another noted, “The Odyssey is set during the age of heroes… the helmets would have been of the boar tusk style, not the Corinthian style.”
Despite the controversy, production is moving forward, with filming set to begin in the next few months. Locations include the UK, Morocco, and Sicily, specifically the island of Favignana, which scholars believe corresponds to a stop in Odysseus’ journey. The island, known as “goat island,” is said to be where Odysseus and his crew landed, gathered food, and roasted goats.
The Odyssey follows Odysseus, the King of Ithaca, on his perilous journey home after the Trojan War, facing mythological creatures and gods. As excitement builds, the debate over historical accuracy continues, adding further intrigue to Nolan’s take on the legendary tale.
The historic fortress town of Monemvasia in southeastern Peloponnese has been shortlisted as one of Europe’s seven most endangered heritage sites due to plans to install a cable car, according to tovima.com.
The nomination was announced by Europa Nostra and the European Investment Bank Institute as part of the 2025 “7 Most Endangered Program,” with the final list set to be revealed in the spring.
The Greek Culture Ministry and the Municipality of Monemvasia support the cable car project, but experts and heritage organizations, including Elliniki Etairia, warn it could harm the site’s cultural and environmental integrity. Opponents argue it may negatively impact the visitor experience and disrupt Monemvasia’s historic landscape. Organizations like ICOMOS, the Association of Greek Archaeologists, and Monumenta have also voiced their opposition.
Europa Nostra has criticized the project’s environmental impact study, stating it lacks clarity on issues like noise pollution, traffic congestion, and effects on local wildlife. The organization also raised concerns that the project prioritizes profit over genuine accessibility improvements.
Instead of a cable car, Elliniki Etairia has suggested a passenger lift, similar to one previously installed to aid restoration work. This alternative could enhance accessibility without compromising the site’s heritage.
Monemvasia, often called the “Gibraltar of Greece,” is a car-free, fortified town with a rich architectural legacy shaped by Byzantine, Venetian, and Ottoman influences. Its inclusion in the 7 Most Endangered list underscores the urgent need for preservation while balancing tourism and conservation efforts.
