Former Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras had a meeting with Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew yesterday in Strasbourg.

Mr Tsipras emphasized his respect for the Ecumenical Patriarchate and the importance of the initiatives of Mr. Bartholomew to promote interfaith dialogue and protect the natural environment.

The Ecumenical Patriarch, for his part, expressed his joy for his reunion with the early prime minister.

During their discussion they had the opportunity to exchange views on topical issues, such as the situation in Ukraine and the Middle East. They both pointed out both the need to protect minorities and Christian communities in the Middle East.

Alexis Tsipras was accompanied by his diplomatic adviser Evangelos Kalpadakis, while on the part of the Ecumenical Patriarchate was attended by the Metropolitan of Elder Chalkidonos, Mr. Emmanouil and the Ecclesiastical Ecclesiastes, Mr. Aetios, Director of the Special Patriarchate.

Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew went to Strasbourg, where he addressed a speech at the plenary session of the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe.