Athens , 1 November 2009

Dear Compatriots,

It is a great pleasure and a particular honor for me to be here with you today, at the celebration of the historic ‘NO!’. October 28 is a day of deep contemplation and reflection for all Greeks. A people learned and sorely tried, Greeks on this day once again were present to answer the call of history. The dimensions of the Greek victory in that harsh winter of 1940 are well known. Also well known are the indelible marks left on world history by the advance of the Greek forces into the snow-covered mountains of Epirus. An advance that gave the first glimmer of hope to the hard-tested allied forces, to the struggle against the axis. A victory that altered the course of the Second World War.

The celebration of the anniversary of the Epic of 1940 is always an opportunity to delve into historical memory and look back on the incomparable heroism and valour of the Greeks. But it is also an opportunity for contemplation and revival of its essential message. The Anniversary of 28 October is an historical landmark of patriotism and rejection of servitude.

Doubtless, the first feeling created is that of admiration for the indomitable Greek spirit, for the bold stance of a country small in size; a country that, beyond all hope, dared to stand up against a major power of the time and defend to the death its freedom and national dignity.

The ‘NO!’ of the Greeks reaffirmed their timeless devotion to the value of liberty, as their highest ideal had always been the liberty of the homeland. In their centuries-long history, the Greeks never hesitated to stand up to would-be conquerors, despite unfavourable political circumstances and interrelations, in order to defend their independence. Today’s anniversary brings to mind the unity shown by the Greeks in 1940, the unity and concord of our nation. A nation that has proven through the ages that at critical moments in history it can come together and achieve great things.

Dear Compatriots,

The ever timely message of the Epic of 1940 is the message of the ongoing struggle of contemporary Hellenism for progress and prosperity. The sacrifices of the Greek heroes must be a source of inspiration for the future, for everyone, both at home and abroad. Our aim and vision is to return Greece to the front line. The strengthening of our country’s position and its emergence – once again – as an active and trusted power, ready to pursue its interests and effectively defend its national rights. For us, the course is clear. Greece always makes gains as a country of values. A country that defends principles, international law and human rights, through which we reinforce our own integrity and security.

We intend to change many things in our country, and we will achieve this. Not our national objectives. The Greeks have reached a point where we – most of us, at least – are in agreement on major national issues. But we will change the manner in which the country’s foreign policy is exercised. Our goal is for Greece to once again exercise an active and multidimensional diplomacy. To again become an agent of initiatives. To seek solutions. To put forward proposals. To negotiate. To achieve synthesis of views. If necessary, to disagree. If need be, to say our ‘NO!’. We want Greece to once again play a leading role as a force for security, stability and development. As a guarantor of respect for international law, human rights and universal values.

Dear Compatriots,

In 1940, the small country of Greece stood up to the invader, proving that strength does not lie in numbers, but in spirit, unity and dignity. Sixty-nine years later, Greece is facing other problems and doing other battles. But today, the need for unity – and unity of purpose – is just as critical. The Greeks of today are inspired by the heroes of 1940, by the ideals of liberty, patriotism, democracy and progress. And we, too – this generation of Greeks – are prepared to say ‘NO!’. So, with our thoughts turned to the past as well as the future, let us honor today our national anniversary and let us take its lessons as our guide.

Thank you and long life to all.