On Thursday, National Defence Minister Nikos Dendias attended the feast of the Dormition of the Virgin Mary, the patron saint of the Greek Armed Forces, on the island of Tinos.
The day also marked the anniversary of the sinking of the Greek cruiser Elli by an Italian submarine on August 15, 1940, resulting in the death of nine seamen.
During his speech, Dendias emphasised that while the Armed Forces honour the past, they continue to evolve and strengthen daily. "Our homeland grows more powerful each day to protect its interests in accordance with International Law," he said, while standing in the Aegean, a symbol of Greece’s maritime heritage.
Dendias highlighted the ongoing modernisation of the military under the 'Agenda 2030' plan, noting the imminent launch of Greece’s second Belharra frigate in mid-September, a state-of-the-art warship that will further enhance Greece’s defence capabilities.
The minister also participated in a memorial service for the victims of the Elli torpedoing and attended the liturgy in honour of the Virgin Mary.