Greece Shows Italy Solidarity in Coronavirus Times

Photo Source: @Ministry of Foreign Affairs Greece

Greece expressed its solidarity to Italy on Friday, during a special event organized by the Greek Foreign Ministry, standing by its neighbour in one of the most trying times in its history.

Italy has been the hardest hit country in Europe with 13,155 Covid-induced deaths on Thursday, surpassing every other country in the world.

Hosted by Greek Foreign Minister Nikos Dendias and attended by Italian Ambassador Efisio Luigi Marras and Greek Parliament Speaker Kostas Tasoulas, the event included the raising of the two countries’ flags to the accompaniment of the national anthems.

Greece’s Foreign Affairs Ministry. Photo Source: @Nikos Dendias

Dendias expressed his grief over the devastating loss of lives in Italy and added: “We took this initiative today… in an expression of love, support and solidarity with the Italian people. A close friend of the people of Greece which is being tested more than anyone today by the coronavirus pandemic.”

“We want to send a message of hope today from the foreign affairs ministry and the Hellenic Parliament to our Italian friends… In consultation with my Italian counterpart, we are making every effort to offer practical assistance to Italy in this dramatic situation for all of us… In these dramatic moments, Greece is by your side. We are with you. We will rise again together,” Dendias added.

The Hellenic Parliament. Photo Source: @PressParliament

As a sign of support and solidarity, Greece’s Parliament building will be lit up in the colors of the Italian flag for three days, the minister said.

On his part, Ambassador Marras said that Italy would always remember Greece’s gesture of good will; “a gesture that gives courage to those who are between life and death and to all those who are fighting to save them”.