US President Donald Trump attended the annual White House celebration marking Greek Independence Day, delivering remarks that highlighted the deep historical and cultural ties between the United States and Greece.
The event, a long-standing tradition now in its fourth decade, brought together members of the Greek-American community alongside political, religious, and business leaders.
Trump: “Freedom and democracy began in Greece.”
In his address, Trump praised Greece as the birthplace of democracy and emphasised the enduring influence of ancient Greek civilisation on the United States.
“The debt that America and all of Western civilisation owes to the Greeks is ancient and eternal,” he said, referencing figures such as Socrates and Aristotle.
He also drew parallels between the American and Greek struggles for independence, noting that both nations have inspired one another throughout history.
“Without Athens, we might never have had Philadelphia,” Trump remarked, highlighting the philosophical foundations shared by the two countries.
Strong Greek-American presence
Among those in attendance were Kimberly Guilfoyle, Archbishop Elpidophoros of America, and prominent Greek-American businessman John Catsimatidis.
Trump also acknowledged several Greek Americans serving in government and public life, praising their contribution to the United States.
He made special reference to the Greek-American community in New York, highlighting its cultural and economic influence, particularly in neighbourhoods such as Astoria.
Tribute to St Nicholas Church and Greek heritage
The US President also referenced the rebuilding of the St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church and National Shrine at Ground Zero following its destruction during the September 11 attacks.
He praised the Greek-American community for restoring the church using marble from the same quarry as the Parthenon, describing it as a powerful symbol of faith and resilience.
Archbishop Elpidophoros highlights strategic ties
In his remarks, Archbishop Elpidophoros thanked the President for recognising Greek Independence Day and emphasised the strategic alliance between the United States and Greece.
He pointed to cooperation in key sectors including defence, energy, and shipping, while also referencing US support for religious freedom and the Ecumenical Patriarchate.
The Archbishop also highlighted Greece’s role as a pillar of stability in the region and expressed appreciation for continued US support on issues concerning Cyprus.
Archbishop highlights Halki Theological School
In his remarks, Archbishop Elpidophoros thanked the President for recognising Greek Independence Day and emphasised the strong strategic alliance between the United States and Greece.
He also raised the issue of reopening the Halki Theological School, noting ongoing efforts and expressing appreciation for US support on religious freedom and the Ecumenical Patriarchate.
Celebrating a shared future
The event also coincides with a milestone year, as the United States marks 250 years since its Declaration of Independence.
Both leaders underscored the shared democratic values that bind the two nations, with the celebration serving as a reminder of the enduring partnership between Washington and Athens.
The White House event remains one of the most symbolic annual recognitions of Hellenism outside Greece, celebrating both history and the ongoing contributions of the Greek diaspora.
US Ambassador Kimberly Guilfoyle honours Greek Independence Day
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