Greek opposition leader meets Patriarch of Jerusalem, pledges support

Nikos Androulakis, leader of Greece's PASOK-KINAL party, met with Patriarch Theophilos III of Jerusalem, affirming his party's commitment to protecting the rights of the Patriarchate and the Christian population in the Middle East. The meeting underscored the delicate geopolitical situation in the region, particularly in light of recent conflicts.

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It is a supreme honor and blessing, Your Beatitude, to meet you today. I want you to know that we are always by your side to protect the rights of the Patriarchate, protect the Christians of the Middle East, and defend the legal status of the Holy Places.

"It is a supreme honor and blessing, Your Beatitude, to meet you today. I want you to know that we are always by your side to protect the rights of the Patriarchate, protect the Christians of the Middle East, and defend the legal status of the Holy Places," Androulakis stated during the meeting. He acknowledged the Patriarchate's position at the center of regional turmoil, especially following the escalation of conflict involving Iran, the United States, and Israel. Androulakis expressed hope for peace, advocating for a two-state solution that ensures prosperity and stability for both Israelis and Palestinians, grounded in respect for international law.

Androulakis also stressed the significance of unity among the ancient Patriarchates, particularly crucial for Orthodoxy and Hellenism in the current challenging circumstances. He wished the Patriarch good health and strength to continue his "God-pleasing work."

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Your words move us because we see that there is real interest from the political leadership of Greece for the Holy Land and for the prevalence of peace. And this is also the mission of the Patriarchate.

Patriarch Theophilos III responded by expressing his deep emotion at Androulakis's words, recognizing the genuine interest from Greece's political leadership towards the Holy Land and the quest for peace. He affirmed that the Patriarchate's mission aligns with this pursuit, viewing every person as an image of God. The Patriarch assured Androulakis that the Patriarchate continues to play its vital role amidst the ongoing war and political crisis, thanking him for his consistent support and recalling their previous positive meeting during Easter in the Holy Land.

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For us, every person is considered the image of God. And the image of God is found in the human soul. I want to assure you that to this day the Patriarchate plays this role in this surrounding and difficult situation of war and political crisis.