President of the Hellenic Republic, Konstantinos Tasoulas addressed Greeks abroad with a heartfelt message ahead of the March 25 National Holiday, commemorating the 204th anniversary of the Greek War of Independence.
In his annual greeting, delivered on March 21, 2025, Tasoulas celebrated the diaspora’s enduring role in Greece’s history and its future.
“Dear compatriots,” he began, “with deep emotion, we once again celebrate the anniversary of our National Regeneration—a historic milestone for the past, present, and future of Hellenism worldwide.” He hailed the 1821 Revolution’s timeless call for independence, democracy, justice, and self-determination, noting its relevance amid today’s geopolitical shifts. “The example of Greek fighters inspires us to safeguard our freedom, sovereignty, and territorial integrity,” he said. “Survival and prosperity demand relentless struggle, vigilance, and a deep study of history.”
Tasoulas spotlighted the diaspora’s pivotal contributions, from the pre-revolutionary intellectual awakening in Vienna—where Rigas Feraios penned his famed Charta—to Paris, where Adamantios Korais laid the foundations of the Greek Enlightenment. He traced their impact to Odessa, where the Filiki Etairia was born in 1814, and to ports like Trieste, Marseille, and Alexandria, which became hubs of support through Greek merchants and benefactors. “From St. Petersburg to Geneva, Ioannis Kapodistrias rallied the Great Powers for our just cause,” he added. “The diaspora’s selfless efforts were invaluable then and remain so now.”
He praised the global Greek community for drawing strength from this legacy, excelling far from home while preserving language, traditions, and identity. “Your love for Greece, your initiatives to uphold our heritage, prove that your presence worldwide is a treasure, a strength, and an honor for our nation,” Tasoulas said.
Reflecting on the sacrifices of 1821’s heroes and the diaspora’s support, he urged unity and faith in Hellenic values to build a secure, prosperous future. “Greece stands as a pillar of stability in a turbulent yet strategic region,” he noted, reaffirming the nation’s resolve. “Over 50 years after the Turkish invasion, we never forget our duty to a free, reunited Cyprus.”
Tasoulas closed with a call to celebrate March 25—also the Feast of the Annunciation—with joy and pride. “I wish you all health and progress,” he said. “Happy anniversary to everyone! Long live Greece!”
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