On the morning of Monday, October 14, 2024, Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew had a cordial meeting with the Premier of Victoria, Jacinta Allan, in Melbourne. The Premier, accompanied by her associates, warmly welcomed the Patriarch, expressing her delight at his visit to the state capital.
During the meeting, Premier Allan conveyed her appreciation for the Patriarch’s presence in Melbourne and reaffirmed her commitment to supporting the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese and its community. The Ecumenical Patriarch expressed his gratitude for her interest and backing of the Archdiocese, acknowledging the importance of the state’s support for the local Orthodox community.
Accompanying the Ecumenical Patriarch were Archbishop Makarios of Australia, Metropolitan Philotheos of Thessaloniki, and Grand Ecclesiarch Aetios, Director of the Private Patriarchal Office.
The visit further strengthened the ties between the Greek Orthodox Church and the state, reflecting the mutual respect and cooperation between religious and governmental institutions.
Photos: Nikos Papachristou