Minister of Foreign Affairs, Nikos Dendias’ reply at the reception ceremony at the H.T. of Protaton (Karyes, Mount Athos, 28.12.2022)

Reverend Delegates, Members of the Holy Community, I sincerely and from the bottom of my heart feel the need to express my thanks and my deepest gratitude for your moving presence and participation in my reception.

Please allow me, as a humble pilgrim, to ask for your blessings and prayers. I convey, as the Minister responsible for the Athonite State, the respect and unreserved love of the Prime Minister and the members of the Government, whose interest in Mount Athos is great and constant.

Holy Fathers, who continue the historical course of this, unique Monastic Community in the world with a special contribution, willingness, sacrifices, as well as with unprecedented collectivity, you are fully justified in expecting cooperation, assistance and support from the rulers of the Greek State.

I am confident that the difficult circumstances that Greece has experienced and which, with God’s help, are being addressed, have not escaped your attention and your particular sensitivity.

My presence with you today gives me the opportunity to embrace your needs and anxieties even more deeply. May God enable me to listen more attentively to the problems that concern you. May I stand beside you, with my insignificant strengths, and strive with you.

I would not wish to tire you further. I would like to have the opportunity to prove with actions what I feel for this exquisite Athos peninsula and its residents.

Again, thank you from the bottom of my heart.