The image of Greece, present at all great international events, such as the farewell to the historic leader of South Africa Nelson Mandela, was portrayed by the Minister of National Defence Dimitris Avramopoulos, who represented the Greek Government.
With the contacts he made, the Minister of National Defence had the opportunity to convey to foreign leaders and officials with whom he discussed, the image of Greece which is struggling and has now positive signs that it will overcome the crisis.
That was the central message of the address and short discussion Mr. Avramopoulos had with the president of the US Mr. Barack Obama, on the sidelines of the memorial ceremony in honour of Mandela, which took place in Johannesburg. The occurrence took place soon after the historic and symbolic handshake between the US President with his Cuban counterpart Mr. Raul Castro.
Special interest on the condition of our country, and particularly on the course towards economy’s reform, was shown by the president of Germany Mr. Joachim Gauck, during the discussion he had with the Minister of National Defence.
The developments in Greece also preoccupy the leadership of France, which is traditionally well-disposed towards our country; something that was confirmed to Mr. Avramopoulos by both the President of France Mr. François Hollande and the Minister of Foreign Affairs Mr. Laurent Fabius, but also by the former President Mr. Nicolas Sarkozy.
Mr. Sarkozy never hided his philhellenic sentiments and, during his discussion with Mr. Avramopoulos, he reiterated his sympathy, as well as his conviction that the Greek people will make it and the sacrifices made will have a positive outcome for our country, but also for Europe.
The Greek Minister also had the opportunity to ascertain common perceptions with Italy, on the handling of the crisis by the countries of the European South in all, during his contacts with the President of the Chamber of Deputies of Italy, Ms. Laura Boldrini.
For the contacts he had in South Africa, the Minister of National Defence Dimitris Avramopoulos informed thoroughly the Prime Minister Antonis Samaras, at a telephone communication.