“The path is being opened for the establishment of the International Day for the Greek Language,” Deputy Foreign Minister Ioannis Amanatidis emphasized in his statement on the occasion of approval of Article 36 of the government bill. “Supplementary Measures for application of Regulation (EE, EURATOM) 1141/2014 pertaining to European political parties and institutions, measures to expedite the government's work within the competency of the Ministry of the Interior, and other provisions.
His statement in detail:
“The Greek language is not just a link between the homeland and the Greek citizens of the Diaspora, nor merely a vehicle for the values and ideals of Greek culture internationally. The Greek language, with its semantic potential, constitutes a requirement for the modern world, at a time when an anthropocentric approach to life is being urgently sought, in the same timeless manner in which Greek culture has always served it.
Therefore, the government's choice to establish an International Day for the Greek Language responds to an international need and, at the same time, also strengthens Greece’s presence in the world.
Moreover, this is not an isolated action, but is part of a comprehensive strategy for supporting Hellenic Studies abroad, following the modernisation of practices in Greek language learning abroad, in which we have already made progress.
Specifically, we seek to:
Emphasize the enduring presence and development of the Greek language, as an element of the national identity and Greek Culture in its universal dimension.
Promote the lasting and formative role of the Greek language as a tool for the development and shaping of values and concepts in the fields of philosophy, science, political ideas, and European culture.
And, finally, to promote the role of Hellenophony as regards communication between Greek citizens in Greece and Cyprus, the Greek Diaspora, as well as every citizen of the world who shares the values of Hellenic Education and Hellenic Culture.
In conclusion, by strengthening the presence of the Greek language, we broaden the influence of Greek thought, and strengthen Greece itself.
February 23, 2017