Mr. Droutsas: Thank you. Mr. Mayor, Mr. Paschalidis, Mr. Mayor of Xanthi. First of all, let me say what a great pleasure it is for me to participate in the tree-planting initiative being organized by our diaspora Greeks here in Kastelorizo. Together, we are planting our roots in this blessed land, and we are leaving behind something that will remain for the coming generations. This is a piece of history, and I feel great respect and great hope seeing, in particular, the children of Kastelorizo participate on this joint effort. Every time I’m here with you on Kastelorizo – this island on the edge of the Aegean but in the heart of Greece – I feel the same admiration and respect for all of those living in border regions, for all those who struggle every day with conditions that are often difficult and unfair, with limited and meagre means. And allow me to say that you teach all of us the true meaning of patriotism, real patriotism. And I say this for an additional reason: I know you often hear your island being talked about. Recently, in particular, there are those who think they can exploit your island in politics and party politics. They suddenly remembered that they have to come to your defence; to show their own patriotism.
But all of you know better than anyone that Turkey’s provocative behaviour has not changed, just as the firm replies we make to every provocation have not changed. We aren’t budging an inch. We will not suffer the slightest dent in our sovereign rights, from one end of Greece to the other. And of course we are not relinquishing Kastelorizo’s rights to its natural wealth. Greece’s weapon is not shouts. It is not slogans. Greece’s weapon is international law, international legality, our position in the international community. Greece’s weapon and strength is its right and its determination to defend this with our diplomacy and our armed forces. No one should ever dare to try an split these two corps, because this would only hurt Greece and Greece’s ability to defend its rights.
So, our message to everyone – in all directions, within and beyond our borders – is clear: Kastelorizo is Greek land, just like Athens, Thrace, Macedonia, Mani and Crete. And anyone who suggests otherwise will have no luck. Please know, my dear friends, that your daily struggle here on our homeland’s outer reaches is not wasted, and from this struggle we should all learn to stop turning against ourselves, separating Greeks into patriots and traitors who switch roles every four years. We owe this to our homeland, which is being tested. We owe this to you, who at every opportunity show us how battles are won. We owe it to the coming generations of Greeks, who deserve a Greece that is strong and built on firm foundations. Today, allow me to say this, as well: As a Greek who grew up in the diaspora, I am very proud that I can plant my roots in this land, on Kastelorizo, in the heart of Greece.
Thank you very much for this whole initiative and everything being done here on Kastelorizo.
March 30, 2011