Greek Community of Melbourne (GCM) President Bill Papastergiadis has met with Greek President Konstantinos Tasoulas in Athens, holding what he described as a wide-ranging discussion on the role of the Greek diaspora, community cooperation and future initiatives linking Greece and Australia.
Speaking to Neos Kosmos, Papastergiadis said the meeting lasted around 30 minutes and covered a broad range of issues affecting both the GCM and the wider Greek Australian community.
“I spoke at length on numerous issues relevant to our organisation, the GCM, while also noting the importance of all community groups working collegiately,” Papastergiadis said.
“I explained that this spirit of cooperation is a hallmark of the fabric of our broader community in Melbourne and across Australia.”
According to Papastergiadis, President Tasoulas welcomed this collaborative approach, saying he was encouraged by the strong sense of collective action and participation among Greek Australians.
The discussion also focused on several major projects currently being undertaken by the GCM, including the development of its new theatre and the refurbishment of community halls across Melbourne to create modern, multipurpose facilities.
Papastergiadis highlighted the GCM’s current cultural tour in Thessaloniki, involving students from Melbourne.
“The President touched on the current cultural tour of GCM students in Thessaloniki,” he said.
He praised Greece’s Minister for Education, Sofia Zacharaki, and Deputy Minister for Foreign Affairs Yiannis Loverdos for their support in making the program possible.
“I explained that this tour is a critical part of our youth engagement strategy. It builds bridges between our two countries and brings together participants from a broad cross-section of our community.”
Papastergiadis said President Tasoulas showed a strong interest in the GCM’s activities and expressed a desire to visit Melbourne and Australia.
“I emphasised the importance of strengthening the connection and cooperation between our two countries and how a visit by the President would further reinforce those ties,” Papastergiadis said.
