During an official visit to Uruguay President Katerina Sakellaropoulou explored the offices of the historic Greek community in Montevideo. She was welcomed by President Panagiotis Chatzirallis, Vice President Pavlos Avgoustis, and many Greek people. Later, she went to the Greek Orthodox Church of Saint Nicholas, accompanied by Metropolitan of Buenos Aires Joseph, and toured the community’s premises.

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President Sakellaropoulou expressed her gratitude for the warm welcome and stated: “I am particularly pleased to be with you tonight, on the first visit of a President of the Hellenic Republic to Uruguay. My presence in this beautiful country has given me the opportunity to see firsthand the strong sentiment of philhellenism that exists in its people, something which you have decisively contributed to by integrating a hospitable community.

Since the early 20th century, when a large wave of Greek immigrants arrived in Uruguay, up to the present day, you continue to contribute, with your hard work and perseverance, to the progress of your new homeland by being an integral part of it. Your settlement here is connected with difficult moments of Hellenism, as many of your ancestors immigrated during the years of the Asia Minor Catastrophe and after the Second World War followed by strife

I congratulate you from the bottom of my heart and wish you every success in your personal and professional lives. You are our worthy ambassadors, you highlight our cultural heritage and keep the flame of Hellenism burning bright. Greece proudly watches your progress.

I wish, all of you and your families to always progress with unanimity, health, and happiness.”