Dear Catherine,
France, as is well known, has played a decisive role in Greek history. It was one of the countries that helped in the liberation of Greece.
All the children at school learn about Admiral de Rigny and Marshal Maison. But of course, our relationship has evolved over the years into an enduring friendship rooted in the same European principles and values.
Today, I believe, we enjoy the closest relationship we have ever had, based on the strategic cooperation agreement that we signed a few months ago.
Our second meeting in such a short period of time is proof of this very close relationship we share.
You will allow me to give you a small gift. It is the letter that the French Foreign Minister de La Ferronays sent to the first Governor of Greece, Ioannis Kapodistrias in 1828, appointing the first French Consul to the new Greek State.
I believe it’s symbolic, and I’d very much like it to be in the French Foreign Minister’s office. Thank you very much.