“The health emergency was succeeded by the war in Ukraine, which rearranges the geopolitical balances”, said Katerina Sakellaropoulou
“The successive crises of recent years have tested us and taught us that our unity and cohesion are connected with solidarity and the deep awareness that beyond individuals we are also members of the social whole”, the President of the Republic, Katerina, emphasizes in her New Year’s message Sakellaropoulou. He particularly refers to the consequences of the health crisis and the war in Ukraine, which “rearranges the geopolitical balances”, while underlining that in a volatile international environment “our country is a factor of stability and security in the Balkans and the South-Eastern Mediterranean”.
The message of the President of the Republic is as follows:
“2022 was another year in the sequence of crises that characterize our time. The pandemic has subsided, thanks to science and collective effort, and society is returning to normal. With sorrow for our fellow human beings who have left, but at the same time knowledge and preparedness for the future and the dangers that lie in store for us.
The health emergency was succeeded by the war in Ukraine, which rearranges the geopolitical balances. From the first moment, Greece expressed its undivided support for the Ukrainian people and contributed, together with its partners, to the defense of European values. The illegal Russian invasion does not only brutally violate the sovereignty of an independent state. It is also causing a generalized food and energy crisis, which is hitting us hard in the difficult winter we are going through, especially vulnerable groups, households and businesses.
In this volatile environment, our country is a factor of stability and security in the Balkans and the Southeast Mediterranean. Demonstrating an unwavering adherence to international law and sober dialogue, but also an unyielding attitude towards any revisionism that questions its sovereign rights. Our homeland has the potential to become an energy and development hub in the wider region, investing in the talent and extroversion of Greeks. In tourism, education, digital services and the green transition, major challenges arise for the next day and the impact of Greece in a globalized community. Prioritizing building a better and more efficient state, ensuring social mobility, fighting inequalities and the demographic problem.
Our progress and prosperity presuppose the proper functioning of our institutions and the guarantee of our rights. Respect for the rule of law is fundamental to the enjoyment of freedom and equality, as well as to the quality of the polity. The deepening of democracy, the separation of powers and the defense of the general interest shield citizens’ trust in politics and its autonomy. This need becomes even more imperative in a period in which illiberal regimes are gaining ground, while in many corners of the globe totalitarian structures and practices prevail.
We live in a world that changes rapidly and unpredictably. The questions sometimes sound more powerful than the answers we have. But this uncertainty gives rise to great opportunities, leaves room for inspiration and creation, and at the same time establishes our responsibility to consolidate and bequeath a more just and inclusive society to future generations.
my countrymen,
The holidays are not only an occasion for stocktaking, plans and promises for the coming year. It is also a stark reminder of the importance of generosity of spirit and selfless caring for others. Especially those who we have neglected and need our support so that they do not remain invisible among us. The successive crises of recent years have tested us and taught us that our unity and cohesion are connected with solidarity and the deep awareness that beyond individuals we are also members of the social whole. That our self includes others. Our hopes and prospects for tomorrow are based on this belief.
I hope that 2023 brings everyone health and happiness.”
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I have worked in the news industry for over 10 years. I have been an author at News Bulletin 247 for the past 2 years. I mostly cover politics news. I am a highly experienced and respected journalist. I have won numerous awards for my work.
