PASOK party leader Nikos Androulakis has emphasized the crucial importance of preserving the Greek language among diaspora communities, calling it "the DNA of every nation," during his official visit to the Greek community of Alexandria.
Speaking after his meeting with Pope and Patriarch of Alexandria Theodoros II and a tour of local community institutions, Mr. Androulakis praised the role of the Greek community in safeguarding cultural heritage and promoting Greek language education abroad.
"No child in the world — Greek or not — who wants to learn Greek should be deprived of that opportunity," Mr. Androulakis said.
"Language is the DNA of every nation, and we must take advantage of all modern technologies to ensure its transmission."
He highlighted the importance of supporting a new generation of Greeks living abroad, particularly children of those who left the country during the financial crisis, stressing they must be empowered to carry forward the Greek language.
Mr. Androulakis also extended thanks to the president of the Greek Community of Alexandria, Mr. Andreas Vafeiadis, and board members for their warm welcome and guided tour of the city’s Greek schools, nursing home, and cemeteries.
He referenced the renowned poet Constantine Cavafy, calling him "our great Alexandrian poet," and commended the community’s efforts to uphold the spirit of what Mr. Cavafy called the "Common Greek Tongue."