Sakellaropoulou: Revisionism is a danger and a threat to peace

“Revisionism is a danger and a threat to peace, wherever it comes from,” underlined the President of the Republic Katerina Sakellaropoulou during her address, at the official dinner she hosted tonight in honor of the King and Queen of the Netherlands at the Presidential Palace.

As the President emphasized, “every day my country is faced with incendiary rhetoric and a series of non-existent challenges to Greek sovereignty and our sovereign rights, on behalf of Turkey, in an attempt to promote its revisionist claims”.

He also clarified that “Greece is always open to dialogue, aiming to develop good neighborly relations with Turkey, under one condition. The full and non-negotiable respect of the principles of international law” and reiterated that “the Cyprus issue is an international issue of illegal invasion and continued occupation of the territories of a sovereign state, and even a member of the European Union”.

At the same time, he argued that “in an era of insecurity and uncertainty it is important that we, as Europeans, remain united in the face of the unprecedented challenges we face” and referred to the ideals and values ​​of democracy, the rule of law and respect for human rights, on which they are based the long-standing relations of friendship and appreciation between Greece and the Netherlands.

In particular, he stated that “we share the same vision for a united and strong Europe, which embraces the diversity of its member states through a common value system, based on their harmonious coexistence” and added that “respect for international law is the foundation stone and the compass of our countries’ foreign policy. Respect that is not an option, but the only way in the continuous struggle for peace, stability, progress and well-being of our peoples”.

In this context, he noted that “even today, after Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, an act of brutal aggression, which strikes directly against world peace and freedom, as you recently characterized it, we see its principles being flagrantly violated, threatening the acquis of stability and security on our continent. Our way of life, the values ​​and ideals that until recently were taken for granted, are being called into question.”

He also pointed out that “the European Union, by imposing strict sanctions against Russia, has unitedly raised its voice against the violation of the national sovereignty of an independent state. We supported the immediate cessation of hostilities, the withdrawal of Russian troops and peace in the region, while condemning Russia’s illegal annexation of territories.” At the same time, he added that “we are trying together to face the huge humanitarian crisis that has been created, while at the same time we are working to find solutions to the energy and economic crisis that threaten our societies and divert our course from the climate goals we had set. But temporarily, since the fight against climate change must continue to be Europe’s top priority, while any procrastination risks being fatal.”

Regarding immigration, he emphasized that he is aware of the sensitivity of Dutch society, as well as the royal couple, for the humanitarian dimension of the immigration and refugee crisis. As he explained, “In this issue, which is the common responsibility of the European Union, since it concerns its external borders, the Greek state responded with a spirit of solidarity towards fellow human beings, shouldering a disproportionate burden. The logistical contribution of the Netherlands in dealing with it constitutes practical proof of support in this struggle.”

He also noted that tomorrow morning, at the round table being organized, “we will have the opportunity to discuss the issue of violence against women, this sad reality, which unfortunately continues to erode the social fabric.” At this point, she expressed her support for the heroic women who in Iran, Afghanistan and other parts of the world, where this phenomenon has an institutional character, are fighting with their lives in the streets and squares, claiming rights that are considered to us here and centuries of course.

Mrs. Sakellaropoulou did not fail to mention the special love of the royal couple of the Netherlands for Greece and argued that their current presence in Athens confirms the excellent relations between our countries, as well as the will to further deepen them in all areas of mutual interest.

“Our bond with the sea, the involvement in trade and the restless spirit of our peoples characterize the history of our nations, which have excelled, over the centuries, as strong naval and commercial powers” added the President.

He also made special mention of the great cultural tradition of the Netherlands, saying characteristically: “The talent of the Dutch painters enchanted our souls and made us travel with Rembrandt, Vermeer, Van Gong, Hieronymus Bosch, Mondrian and so many others, while in classical philosophy, with its strong Greek imprint, our thinking continued along the path of Aristotle’s “Ethics”, enriched with the analyzes and reflections of the philosopher Spinoza. I would be particularly happy if circumstances allowed me to dwell more on the ecumenical heritage of these great Dutchmen, but today I consider that I owe a special mention to Hugo Grotius, who, deeply influenced by the ancient writers, laid the foundations of public international law, with his work “On the Law of War and Peace”.

For his part, King William-Alexander of the Netherlands, during his objection at the dinner, expressed his great joy that together with his wife Maxima, they are finally visiting the Hellenic Republic, after two postponements, and added that “we wanted to we will visit you at the end of the previous year, honorably, two hundred years after the beginning of the revolution, which marked your independence”.

As he said “in Spetses, where we often come, the Bouboulina statue stands proudly in the central square. It represents the contribution of women to a free and strong Greece. It is a long tradition, of which you are also a part, as the first female President of the Hellenic Republic”.

He also likened Greece to the olive tree, referring to the ancient myth of the dispute between Athena and Poseidon for control of Athens, arguing that just as it was reborn again and again, so Greece, after the extremely difficult years of the financial crisis, he found the courage and strength to rebuild, achieving important administrative and economic reforms.

“I understand very well how much sacrifice was asked of the people of this country. But the results offer renewed optimism for the future. The olive tree blooms again!” noted the King of the Netherlands and argued that it is important to recognize the extraordinary efforts made by the people of Greece outside the borders, while he expressed the hope that their visit would contribute in this direction.

In addition, he emphasized that “we will pay attention to issues that we struggle with within the Union, such as the reception of immigrants” and noted that “due to its geographical location, it has been a great challenge for Greece”.

In particular, he noted that “It has placed a heavy burden on the local communities of the islands and on the mainland. This is an issue that concerns us all and for which we all in Europe bear a common responsibility. In Europe without borders, the migration issue can only be solved at EU level. Greece is also our south-eastern border. That is why we are particularly concerned about what is happening here.”

He also pointed out that Greece is a proud and self-confident country and emphasized that “Europe” as an idea would not exist if we did not rediscover Greek culture. “Fortunately, your country is not an ‘open air museum.’ Pride in its past goes hand in hand with the belief that it needs continuous renewal in administration, economy and society,” he observed.

In this context, he argued that “for the Netherlands it is a source of inspiration to work with you in the field of innovation” and cited the Orange Grove, an incubator for young entrepreneurs. As he mentioned “I remember our previous visit, shortly after its establishment in 2013. At that time it was still a small initiative of the Dutch embassy here in Athens. It is now a vibrant community of startups, universities, governments, investors and education providers. Tomorrow my wife and I will be making another visit to Orange Grove which we are looking forward to.’

He then stated that “we see many other opportunities to deepen our cooperation, for example in the field of defense. We are united in our support for the hard-pressed people of Ukraine. And when necessary, we contribute to the restoration of security and stability in Europe.”

He also added that “a common priority of ours is the transition to a cleaner and more environmentally neutral economy. I know that you – like us – attach great importance to this matter. It is absolutely necessary to put sustainability at the center of our actions and also of our energy supply, for example with pure hydrogen. The Netherlands will gladly cooperate with you!’

Addressing the President of the Hellenic Republic, he reminded that “for four decades we have been partners within the European Union. Together we saw the Berlin Wall fall. We have welcomed eighteen new Member States and said goodbye to one. We have been through intense financial economic crises. We faced a pandemic. And now we stand together for freedom and democracy against the backdrop of Russian aggression in Ukraine. We have become closer and learned to understand and appreciate each other more and more.”

He concluded by saying that “two centuries after the start of your struggle for independence and after ten difficult years, Greece can once again look forward to a healthy future.” As he said “This is a testament to your remarkable resilience! Thank you that we can be your guests at this pivotal point for the self-confidence and pride of the Greeks. Greece warms the soul. Our friendship with this country is precious to us. A country where centuries-old olive trees always produce fresh, green shoots.”

RES-EMP

Read the News today and get the latest news.
Follow Skai.gr on Google News and be the first to know all the news.