The Deputy Minister of National Defense Mr. Nikolaos Hardaliasas part of his official visit to Australia, met today, Sunday, October 23, 2022, with the Most Reverend Bishop of Sozopol, Mr. Sundayat the seat of the Episcopate, in the Archbishop’s Church of St. Eustathius, in Melbourne.

During the meeting, issues and needs of the Diocese were discussed, its multi-level offering through its missionary, humanitarian and educational initiatives for the promotion of Orthodoxy and Hellenism. Mr. Hardalias praised the work of the Episcopate and the efforts made, always framed with feelings of philhellenism and love for the Greek Nation and the Orthodox Church.

The Deputy Minister of National Defense, before the meeting, attended the Divine Liturgy and the Memorial Service in memory of the fallen of the Battle of Navarino which were held in the Archbishopric Church of Agios Efstathios, patron of the Theophilus Bishop of Sozopol etc. Sunday.

Subsequently, Mr. Hardalias visited the Hellenic Museum of Melbourne and toured its premises, where exhibits are hosted that promote and perpetuate Greek culture and highlight Greek history throughout its time. The Deputy Minister of National Defense was welcomed by the General Director of the Greek Media Group (Radio Station “3XY-Radio Hellas and Newspaper “Ta Nea”) Mr. Spyros Alatsas.

The Deputy Minister of National Defense visited the Consulate General of Greece in Melbourne, where he met with the Consul General Mr. Emmanuel Kakavelaki and discussed matters of mutual interest. He also spoke to the officials of the diplomatic delegation, whom he congratulated for the excellent way of carrying out their duties.

Additionally, at the headquarters of the Consulate General, he met with the Greek-Australian Parliamentarians of Victoria Mr. Nick Staikos (and Deputy Minister to the Premier of Victoria responsible for education, health care and transport) and Mr. Lee Tarlamiswith whom he discussed matters of common interest and of the Diaspora.

Finally, Mr. Hardalias participated in a working lunch with prominent businessmen of the Greek Diaspora in Melbourne. In a productive discussion, he exchanged views on matters of cooperation and investment in the Greek economy, which, despite the ongoing global crises, is developing at an exceptional rate.

Finally, the Deputy Minister of National Defense gave interviews to the expatriate media:

• On the radio station “3XY-Radio Hellas”.

• In the newspaper “NEOS KOSMOS”.

The Deputy Minister of National Defense was accompanied by the Greek Consul General Mr. Emmanuel Kakavelakis.