Dear Compatriots,
Today's anniversary of "OHI” (“NO”) is a day of remembrance and pride for the Greek people, who on 28 October 1940 stood strong and fought against the Axis forces in national solidarity and unity. Today we honour those who fought and who sacrificed their lives for our freedom, writing one of the most glorious pages in modern Greek history, the epic of 1940, and defending fundamental and timeless values of Hellenism: democracy, freedom, independence and justice.
The current critical and unstable international environment renders the anniversary of 28 October extremely timely, highlighting the timeless and universal human values that inspired our forebears and continue to inspire Greeks around the world. Today, more than ever before, we are being called upon to jointly promote the timeless messages of 28 October, the ideals and values that are constant points of reference and the compass of our Nation. It is no coincidence that Dialogue, Diplomacy and Democracy – Greek words that resonate globally – constitute the guiding principles of Greece in its term as a non-permanent member of the UN Security Council in 2025 and 2026.
We are proud of the members of the Greek Diaspora, who are undoubtedly our best ambassadors beyond our homeland’s borders, as they not only promote Hellenism as an ark of universal values, but also contribute substantially to the defence of national interests and the promotion of Greece’s image nternationally.
Strengthening the Greek element around the world and our ties with diaspora communities is a national priority for us. With this vision, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs created the Strategic Plan for Greeks Abroad 2024-2027, a comprehensive plan for the Greeks of the diaspora, with clear goals and actions.
Dear Compatriots,
At a time when the challenges to peace and security are multidimensional and more complex than ever before, Greece is a pillar of stability, always remaining faithful to the values for which the heroes we honour on today’s anniversary of 28 October fought and sacrificed their lives. Today, all Greeks are being called upon to move forward, with national unity, creativity and self-confidence, to achieve our national goals and to ensure a better and more just world for generations to come.
Hail, 28 October! Many happy returns of the day to all Greeks!
October 27, 2024