CANBERRA – Greece’s Ambassador to Australia Alexis Christopoulos to Australia will leave his post this week and finish a 35-year-career as a diplomat, retiring from the Greek Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Speaking to the Australian newspaper Neos Kosmos as he prepared for his return to Athens, Ambassador Christopoulos told Greek-Australians that, “I am very proud of you, and proud of your achievements. Never forget the principles that set you on the path you have taken.”
Christopoulos said that he felt the Greek Diaspora in Australia exhibited unique features of genuine character and integrity, especially in keeping close to their Greek identity. He said he also found the Australian people warm and hospitable, which makes him return to Greece with a suitcase full of special memories. Christopoulos expressed his gratitude for the support shown to him and Greece by Australia over the past three years. He also referred to the problems he faced during his office as a result of the Greek economic crisis that has put a crushing burden on his homeland.
With his long career over, asked if he will spend some vacation time on the Greek islands, he replied: “I am returning to Athens and I am looking forward to spending some time in the islands, but I really don’t need a vacation. My profession has been my vacation.”
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