Ambassador Alison Duncan Enhances Australia-Greece Ties at Greek Centre Visit

Ambassador Alison Duncan, the newly appointed Ambassador to Greece from Australia, recently paid a visit to the Greek Centre before embarking on her journey to Greece. As a senior career officer with the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, Ambassador Duncan will be taking over the role of Ambassador Arthur Spyrou.

Her visit to the Greek Centre was met with great enthusiasm as President Bill Papastergiadis OAM of the Greek Community of Melbourne (GCM) warmly welcomed her, accompanied by GCM Vice President Michael Karamitos, Secretary Nick Koukouvitakis, Assistant Secretary Vicky Kyritsis, GCM Board Members Dr Nick Dallas, Dr. Spiridoula Demetriou, and Christos Sikavitsas. Jorge Menidis, the Greek Centre Director, and the GCM staff were also present to greet her.

The purpose of Ambassador Duncan's visit to the Greek Centre was to strengthen the longstanding relationship between Australia and the Greek Community of Melbourne. This visit highlighted the shared commitment of both nations to promoting cultural understanding and further enhancing the bonds that unite Australia and Greece.

During her time at the Greek Centre, Ambassador Duncan engaged in fruitful discussions with the representatives of the GCM. They exchanged personal experiences related to Greece and expressed their admiration for Ambassador Duncan's dedication to learning the Greek language during her three-year appointment. The GCM representatives also highlighted their involvement in various bilateral agreements between Australia and Greece, including the Tourist Working Visa Agreement. President Bill Papastergiadis mentioned the GCM's efforts to advance a bilateral Health agreement through lobbying.

The GCM Board members provided Ambassador Duncan with insights into the service centres offered at the Greek Centre, such as the presence of Greek Lawyers and the National Bank of Greece, as well as the availability of school facilities. Furthermore, plans were underway to establish the Greek National Tourism Office within the iconic Greek Centre located on Lonsdale Street in Melbourne. Ambassador Duncan expressed her excitement upon hearing this news, recognizing the office as a valuable addition that will facilitate stronger connections between Australia and Greece.

Ambassador Duncan reiterated Australia's unwavering support for initiatives that promote the Greek language and culture. In addition to cultural collaboration, she and the GCM Board explored potential areas of cooperation for the future. Expressing her gratitude for the warm welcome and hospitality extended by the GCM, Ambassador Duncan emphasized her eagerness for the relationship between the GCM and her office to continue flourishing.

The visit of Ambassador Alison Duncan to the Greek Centre serves as a testament to the enduring friendship between Australia and Greece. Through such interactions and exchanges, both countries strive to deepen their mutual understanding, foster cultural ties, and pave the way for a prosperous future of cooperation.