Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras hailed the contribution of the Patriarchate of Jerusalem in interfaith dialogue at an especially critical time for the region, during a meeting on Thursday afternoon with Patriarch Theophilos III.

Welcoming the Prime Minister, the Patriarch noted that his visit at Patriarchate of Jerusalem is especially important as it is taking place at a time when Christians in the region are facing difficulties.

The Patriarch referred to the historical role of the Patriarchate and the efforts made for centuries to preserve orthodoxy and the harmonious coexistence of different religions in the historic city.

In response, Mr. Tsipras stressed the importance of interfaith dialogue for peace and coexistence, condemned once more the religious hatred and violence and called on the Patriarch to continue his efforts for dialogue and the coexistence of the three different monotheistic religions, Christians, Muslims and Jews. He also promised that the government will support the restoration projects of the Patriarchate.

Patriarch of Jerusalem awarded the Prime Minister with the Order of the Holy Sepulchre and then he gave Mr. Tsipras a tour at the Patriarchate and the site of the Holy Sepulchre.