Meeting of Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew with PASOK party leader
The President of PASOK–Movement for Change, Nikos Androulakis, currently in Constantinople, met with His All-Holiness Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew at the Phanar, on the eve of the Feast Day of Epiphany, 5 January 2025.
“I wish you all of God’s blessings in the New Year—personally as the leader of the opposition, for which I particularly congratulate you, as well as for your family, your party, and the entire Greek nation,” the Ecumenical Patriarch said, according to the party’s announcement. Androulakis is visiting the Phanar for the third consecutive year to mark the Feast of the Epiphany.
In response, Androulakis expressed his gratitude: “We are deeply honoured by your hospitality. I wish for 2025 to be a year of health and prosperity. Millions of Orthodox Christians worldwide draw inspiration and strength from your words and actions. I truly hope you remain strong, as you are an inspiration to us all.”
Referring to the passing of former Prime Minister and PASOK President Costas Simitis, Androulakis stated: “Today is a difficult day for PASOK and the Greek people. Costas Simitis was one of the greatest Greeks, whose legacy profoundly shaped modern Greece—European, strong, and forward-thinking. His tenure brought infrastructure, a competitive economy, a robust welfare state, strong institutions, independent authorities, and the monumental achievement of Cyprus’ accession to the EU despite the unresolved Cyprus issue. His work will serve as a guiding compass for our future.”
The Ecumenical Patriarch also expressed his condolences for the loss of the former Prime Minister, highlighting his contributions as a statesman. “He offered much to Greece as a capable and visionary politician. He led Greece into the Eurozone, supported Turkey’s EU accession—a prospect the Ecumenical Patriarchate continues to wish for—and contributed significantly to Greece’s development,” the Ecumenical Patriarch said. He fondly recalled their meeting at the Ecumenical Patriarchate on the Feast of the Annunciation, a moment he remembered with great emotion.
Photographs: Nikos Papachristou
