“It is always a particularly honored and deeply moving moment to meet with the ATH the Ecumenical Patriarch, His Holiness, Mr. Bartholomew,” wrote, in a post, government spokesman, Paul Marinakis.

“His wisdom, sobriety and courage are a constant source of inspiration and guidance for the demanding continuation of our work.

I thank him warmly and from the bottom of my heart for his honor,” added the government spokesman.