Deputy Foreign Minister Kostas Tsiaras visited Perth, where he met with members of the Greek community, discussions with whom focussed on the creation of a new World Council of Hellenes Abroad (SAE) that represents all Hellenes abroad.
Mr. Tsiaras also mentioned the support Greeks abroad can provide for their homeland in the difficult times it is going through. More specifically, he focussed on investments that can be made in Greece, as well as the need for increased tourist flows into our country.
Mr. Tsiaras then visited Melbourne, where he held a press conference with Greek Canadian news media. He stressed the longstanding strength of Hellenism abroad, which we need to capitalize on and enhance. In reference to the taxation of permanent residents abroad, he made assurances that the deadline for the issuing of relevant tax certifications has been extended until September.
While in Melbourne, Mr. Tsiaras also met with representatives of the Hellenic-Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (HACCI), underscoring that there is much room for further increases in Greek exports, and particularly of traditional products.
Finally, Deputy Foreign Minister Tsiaras met with the Minister for Multicultural Affairs and Citizenship of Victoria, Nikolaos Kotsiras. Their meeting focussed in particular on the efforts to enhance Greek language education.
Mr. Tsiaras will also be visiting Adelaide, Brisbane and Sidney.
March 5, 2013