Greek Minister of Tourism visits Ecumenical Patriarch at the Phanar

On Tuesday, 16 January 2024, His All-Holiness Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew received the Greek Minister of Tourism, Ms. Olga Kefalogianni along with her colleagues at the headquarters of the Ecumenical Patriarchate at the Phanar.

In the meeting matters related to her portfolio and the exchange of views on the Greek community in Constantinople and the role of the Ecumenical Patriarchate were also discussed.

The meeting, held in a warm and cordial atmosphere, served as an opportunity for the Minister to express the Greek government’s unwavering support for the crucial efforts undertaken by the Ecumenical Patriarch, emphasising the significance of supporting both his work and the broader Hellenism of Constantinople.

After the meeting, Ms. Kefalogianni shared her thoughts, stating, “The effort and work done by the Ecumenical Patriarch is very important, and we, as the Greek government, are always here to support this effort, but also the Hellenism of Constantinople.”

She went on to express gratitude for the reception given by the Ecumenical Patriarch, seeking blessings for the upcoming year and highlighting the shared commitment to working for the sake of Greece and all of Hellenism.

Minister Kefalogianni also took the opportunity to visit the Patriarchal Church of St. George, where she gained insights into the relics preserved there.

Furthermore, the Minister of Tourism is scheduled to inaugurate the Greek Tourism Organisation’s office in Constantinople, located on the historic “Megali Odos” in the Pera district, in an event set for Today, 17 January 2024. The initiative aims to strengthen ties and promote tourism, fostering cultural and economic collaboration between Greece and Constantinople.