G. Kotsiras: “We support the efforts of Greeks and philhellenes around the world to promote the Greek language”.
"Greece actively and practically promotes the Greek language and recognizes the valuable contribution of teachers, expatriates and philhellenes around the world". This message was conveyed by the Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, Giorgos Kotsiras, speaking today, Monday, at an event for the International Greek Language Day, organized in Naples by the SINTONIA Association of Philhellene Teachers, with the support of the Municipality of Naples and under the auspices of the Embassy of Greece in Italy.
In his speech, Mr. Kotsiras emphasized the special significance of the event in Naples, given that the idea of establishing the International Greek Language Day was born in this Italian city, which was founded by Greeks and celebrates its 2500 years this year. He highlighted Naples’ unique position as a link between Greek and Italian cultural heritage and as a symbol of the deep friendship that unites Greece and Italy.
Referring, in particular, to the value of the Greek language, the Deputy Minister spoke about its timelessness, universality and its fundamental role in shaping European and global culture. "Greek language is a living language", which promotes communication while also "connects us with our roots", he said, noting that "especially for Greeks living abroad, it is the primary means of maintaining their identity and connection with the motherland".
The Deputy Minister expressed his gratitude to the Greek diaspora in Naples and the philhellene teachers who, led the effort to establish World Greek Language Day a decade ago inspired by Professor Giannis Korinthios. He emphasized that for the Greek State, strengthening ties with Greeks of the Diaspora and preserving the Greek language remain top priorities.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs supports the efforts of Greeks and philhellenes around the world to promote the Greek language and culture in an integrated and coordinated manner, Mr. Kotsiras said, referring to a series of initiatives being advanced under the Strategic Plan for the Greek Diaspora 2024-2027, aimed at reinforcing the Greek language and cultural heritage.
The Deputy Minister focused, in particular, on five actions that are already being planned and implemented: The upgrade of the online Greek language and culture learning platform staellinika.com, integrating artificial intelligence applications, the targeted and horizontal strengthening of Greek Studies chairs at universities worldwide, the collaboration with the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens for the development of distance learning programs in Greek language, history and culture, the expansion of hospitality programs for children and young people of the Greek community, the coordinated promotion of the International Greek Language Day.
Concluding, Mr. Kotsiras congratulated the students who participated in the event, taking part in an International Marathon for the Greek language on the theme of friendship, and he warmly thanked the organizers, stressing that "together we can keep our language alive and thriving, a valuable legacy and compass to the world for pres ent and future generations".
February 10, 2025