In a special ceremony that was held on Sunday, in the context of the celebrations for the city’s independence, Nafplio declared Prime Minister Antonis Samaras honorary citizen and presented him with the city keys.

In his address at the event, Mr. Samaras underlined the important role Nafplio played in the history of the modern Greek state, as its first capital after it gained independence from the Ottomans.

“Fate had it that I became prime minister of Greece during the toughest period in the last few decades,” the Prime Minister said, adding that these difficult times will soon pass.

The ceremony was attended by members of the cabinet, church authorities, regional officials and local residents.