The group is visiting archaeological sites and museums in Athens and then in Crete until September 28, 2022. It is being hosted at the facilities of the Agios Andreas Attica Medical Center and was accompanied on its visit to the Ministry of Defense by Vice-Chief of the General Staff of the National Defense Vice-Admiral Ioannis Drymousis.

Lina Mendoni discussed with the young people about their relationship with Greek culture and the Greek language. As the Minister pointed out, it is very important that third and fourth generation Greeks, who were born and raised in Australia, speak Greek while maintaining a close relationship with Greek education, as they are interested in their roots. The Minister gave commemorative gifts to the young people, pointing out that the Ministry of Culture and Sports is always ready and happy to welcome the Greeks of the diaspora, strengthening actions that bring them closer to Greece.

Lina Mendoni also noted that the Ministry of Culture and Sports supports the ties developed after her official visit to Sydney and Melbourne last April and is in contact with the Australian Archdiocese, as well as with institutions, with actors of the Greek community and government officials. The example of the highly successful exhibition “Open Horizons. Ancient Greek Travels and Contacts”, held at the Melbourne Museum, setting a record attendance, has opened new avenues of cooperation with Australian museums.

The visit of the young people from Australia, which is taking place for the first time and aims to maintain their contact with the culture of Greece, is under the auspices of the General Staff of National Defense in collaboration with the Pan-Cretan Union of Melbourne.

Article courtesy of Ministry of Culture and Sports