Mitsotakis Highlights Tomb of the Unknown Soldier’s Symbolic Importance & Greece’s Role in Middle East Peace

During his visit to the Presidential Mansion, Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis met with President Konstantinos Tasoulas, addressing two significant issues: the protection of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and Greece’s presence in the signing of the historic peace agreement in the Middle East.

Preserving a National Symbol

“The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier carries symbolic weight — it is identified with the nation’s history,” Mitsotakis said, stressing that the monument honors all those who gave their lives for the homeland and deserves special protection. He highlighted that similar cenotaphs abroad, such as Arlington in the United States, are treated with particular care, underscoring the need for legislative measures to safeguard the monument.

The Prime Minister explained that under the new legislation, the Ministry of National Defense will handle the monument’s maintenance and cleaning, while the Ministry of Citizen Protection will continue to maintain order around the site. Mitsotakis stressed that the regulation strikes a balance between constitutional rights of assembly and the necessity to treat historically significant monuments differently.

Criticizing opposition parties, he remarked that they had rushed into an “out-of-place and out-of-time revolutionary exercise,” urging agreement on the obvious need to preserve the monument’s character.

Historic Peace Agreement in the Middle East

Mitsotakis also referred to Greece’s role in the Gaza peace process. He welcomed the release of hostages two years after Hamas’s invasion of Israel, describing it as a closing chapter and an opportunity to achieve a broader, lasting solution. He praised U.S. President Donald Trump for his efforts in addressing the long-standing Palestinian issue and emphasized that Greece is offering its support to facilitate next steps in the peace process.

“We are present at the signing of a historic agreement — a cornerstone for peace in the Middle East,” Mitsotakis said, highlighting Greece’s position as a reliable and stabilizing partner in the region. He expressed hope that the agreement could lead to the coexistence of two states peacefully, without one threatening the other, calling this outcome the only viable solution.

Tasoulas on Historic Importance and Greece’s Regional Role

President Konstantinos Tasoulas echoed the Prime Minister’s statements, describing the peace treaty as a historic achievement and praising Trump’s efforts. He also emphasized Greece’s ongoing engagement in the Middle East, including humanitarian aid to Gaza, hosting children in Greek hospitals, and facilitating dialogue between parties. Tasoulas expressed hope that Greece could continue contributing to the reconstruction of Gaza, strengthening the country’s role as a constructive regional actor.

Balancing National Heritage and Global Diplomacy

The visit and discussions highlighted Greece’s dual focus: preserving national heritage, exemplified by the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, and actively participating in international diplomacy. Mitsotakis’ remarks underline the importance of respecting history while engaging in initiatives that promote global stability and peace.

Source: pagenews.gr