Mitsotakis: Greeks and Armenians experienced martyrdom together

Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis sent a letter to the Armenian National Committee of Greece – “One hundred and six years later, we remember, we wake up and we cooperate!” he said in the letter.

Among other things, Mitsotakis highlighted that Greeks and Armenians experienced martyrdom together.

Mitsotakis’ letter to the Armenian National Committee of Greece:

Ladies and gentlemen, dear friends,

The “Day of Remembrance of the Armenian Genocide” is an anniversary always special for the peoples of Greece and Armenia, linked by centuries of ties. But also with a friendship that has been forged in difficult conditions.

One hundred and six years after the crime of 1915, humanity does not forget the cleansing of a people. A massive and systematic crime, which, in fact, was organized when the eyes of the planet were focused on the muddy trenches of the First World War.

Today, therefore, as every April 24th, we honour the memory of the innocent victims, declaring our faith in respect for human life and dignity. Because only peaceful coexistence leads peoples forward, turning their diversity into mutual wealth.

Over time, Greece and the Caucasus walked together in mythology and history, culture and traditions. That is why our country could not but stand by the side of the victims of Armenia in its last ordeal. We immediately responded to the request for humanitarian aid.

And today, it supports the consolidation of security in the region, based on international law, for a solution that respects the rights of the local population, away from a new, unjust bloodshed.

Greece also does not forget that at the beginning of the 20th century Greeks and Armenians lived moments of martyrdom together, through the drama of the Pontians and Asia Minor. That is why, even in difficult conditions for her, our country was one of the first to treat persecuted Armenians and recognise the Genocide of their people.

This historical coexistence over the centuries is continued today by the two communities in the two countries. Two stable bridges between them, which participate fruitfully in the economic and social life of the two states, renewing their long-standing friendship.

I close by reiterating the importance of preserving historical memory, as oblivion opens “Doors” to re-occur events that have tarnished human history. Our vigilance, therefore, must be constant. And let our words accompany actions that prevent discrimination, hatred and violence. One hundred and six years later, then, we remember, we wake up and we work together!

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