00:00:00
Speaker 1: I'm sitting in the beautiful new offices of the Consul General of Greece, Dr Alexandra Theodoropoulou, who has been here in Adelaide now for two years. And I was just saying to her, we've enjoyed a cup of coffee as we've been sitting here. I've dealt with consuls here over the last, I don't know, 10, 15 years, 20 years. And I don't think I've seen one as involved in the community as Dr Theodoropoulou is. Doctor, good afternoon. Thank you for your time.
00:00:28
Speaker 2: Good afternoon. It's a great pleasure to welcome you and your radio in our new premises.
00:00:36
Speaker 1: Thank you.
00:00:37
Speaker 2: I hope you entered with the right foot. You know what it means for us?
00:00:41
Speaker 1: Tell me. This is a traditional thing.
00:00:43
Speaker 2: Explain.
00:00:43
Speaker 1: Yes.
00:00:44
Speaker 2: In Greek, we call it podariko, which is something like podiatry, as you say. It comes from the foot. And it means when you enter a new office, you enter with your right foot. Okay.
00:00:55
Speaker 1: I think I did.
00:00:56
Speaker 2: Fantastic. So you're on the right side.
00:00:59
Speaker 1: I had to wait for the door to open, so of course. This is a good space, isn't it? This is where you've just moved here in the last few months. So what does it mean? What's the change mean, particularly for the Greek community here who will be coming to use the services you offer here?
00:01:12
Speaker 2: So we are situated in Curry Street, 41 Curry Street. I think it is important to be in the centre of the city, not only because it is... easily and equally accessible to the members of our community, but also it is a good point of reference for the city. We are one of the three, only three, career diplomatic consulates here in Adelaide. Our new offices are situated right next to the building where the Department of Foreign Affairs is located, with whom we cooperate very, very closely. We are also close to government buildings, the town hall, and this facilitates our administrative, but also our general operations. Protocol, culture and all these types of work also makes communication and exchange easier.
00:02:15
Speaker 1: The building is a Dalgety building or used to be for people who know older buildings in Adelaide next to Topham Place. So this is where you are now and obviously the services on offer here would be diplomatic services that one would expect from such an office. Let's talk about you a little bit. How did you end up here? Because I know you studied as a young woman across Europe, obviously in Athens, in different places, Brussels, Paris, and more. Strasbourg as well. You have a doctorate in political science is where that ended up. How did you end up in the diplomatic service?
00:02:47
Speaker 2: Well, this is a very good question, but you know how it is sometimes in life. It is a combination of choice and conditions. I have lived many years abroad as a student. And also as an intern, as a researcher, I studied most of my time in France, but also in Spain, in the Francophone world, believe it or not. But I think my English is okay because I have also served in the United States. And of course, English is a main language. Yes. So I was thinking... After all these years, I still have one point of reference, one attachment, and this is my own country. Having had such an international experience, because I also worked at UNESCO when I was in Paris, and I have also done some research for the United Nations and represented my country from a very early age, I thought this could be a job for me so that at least I can keep the connection. And indeed, in my case, diplomacy brought me closer to Greece. And I have spent quite some years serving in Athens at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, reconnecting in a way for myself and for my son to our motherland, to our language, which is also the language with which I write not only as a diplomat concerning the communication with Athens, but also as a writer.
00:04:33
Speaker 1: And you are a writer. We'll explore that in a bit. Firstly, Paris. This is a professional question now. We've seen some terrible scenes. I'm sure the Greek government, as our government here in Australia, would be reaching out to the French government to consult in this terrible time they've had over there.
00:04:49
Speaker 2: You are talking about the most recent demonstrations.
00:04:53
Speaker 1: It must pain you as somebody who's lived in Paris too to see that.
00:04:56
Speaker 2: My sister, I have family. My sister and my nephew live in Paris. And of course, having lived and studied there, I get reports from my friends. Yeah. France is going through a very, very difficult time, but we have also gone through that in Greece. And you might be aware our years of crisis were also years of turmoil, of revolt from the youth. The sad thing is when this type of crisis happen, the young people pay the price and there is a lot of rage indeed. Of course, we have consulates in Paris, obviously, and the embassy are there to assist the Greek citizens that might have been involved or in danger with the situation. At the same time, France is a very important ally. All we want is to see our close partner stand on its feet and go through this crisis together. in the best possible way. It is very sad, this shadow of economic crisis, because that's where it starts. Of course, again, we have been the first to experience this goes as far as the heart of Europe. as one of the biggest and most important European countries, which is France.
00:06:30
Speaker 1: To your writing, you're a published author. Where did this love of language come from? You've written poetry. You've taken some of the Odyssey and expanded on it, as if what would the conversation have been between Odysseus and Calypso? You've done a lot of work. Obviously, you love poetry. You love writing. Where does this come from?
00:06:50
Speaker 2: It comes from within, from inside. That's the most sure. Why do people write? And especially busy people like me, one would answer.
00:07:01
Speaker 1: Would question.
00:07:03
Speaker 2: I devote some of my most precious time to the writing. It's like my prayer. It's like my meditation. It's what I owe to myself and to the world. Obviously, if things come out of My soul, it's for some reason, things that probably have not been told and I feel like that they need to be told or things that may give pleasure to the reader. I've also written philosophy books. I have published an extensive research on ancient Greece and the ancient ritual and the connection with rituals that one can observe even today amongst indigenous people because I am interested in that side of history that has to do with mythology and ritual. It's probably also my tendency, my academic tendencies that were exposed there, but I I don't write as an academic. I like to write in a popularized way for people to understand as much as possible.
00:08:08
Speaker 1: No one likes reading the work of academics other than other academics, I think.
00:08:12
Speaker 2: No comment on that.
00:08:15
Speaker 1: You've spoken at different events here, most recently the Greek Writers Festival, about some of your work and the importance of language. I know you're on a drive to encourage the Greek language amongst schools in SA, amongst anyone who wants to learn it. And I think universities have been under pressure offering Greek courses here in the state of late. Are you concerned by that? How do we keep the Greek language prominent?
00:08:41
Speaker 2: By understanding its amazing value. It's been now a couple of years that UNESCO, United Nations Organization for Cultural Education, has dedicated world... Greek Language Day, which is February 9th. It is the day Dionysios Solomos, our national poet, the poet who wrote our national anthem, passed away. It's the memory of this poet. This is a great recognition because it shows the universal value of our language, of the Greek language. And of course, this is not the moment to start talking about that because it has been also the object of my lectures. I would say I am not only a guardian, I see myself as a propagandist of the Greek language, if I may say so. It is in the roots of most Western languages. given that Latin, which is the source of most European languages, comes, is derived from the Greek in terms of structure and in terms of using the alphabetical writing and having... a certain organization of language. And of course, all the Greek words that have been used and passed from the Latin to the other languages, not only from the past to the future, but from the Greek language has been used also for modern concepts, for new ideas, for sciences. Why? Because it gives some sort of precision and, believe it or not, prestige. It gives accuracy and it gives prestige because it connects the past, the beginnings, the origins with the future. So I strongly encourage young people to learn Greek, especially, of course, those who are of Greek origin. One of my most important works here in Adelaide is not only to encourage but to help institution building around education. greek language whether it's in primary secondary but also tertiary education.
00:11:12
Speaker 1: So you see that as a driving goal as consul general to encourage.
00:11:15
Speaker 2: That absolutely i think that the greek language is our most precious heritage and we can only win with learning our language not only mentally intellectually but culturally.
00:11:32
Speaker 1: As well I know one of your other key projects, if you like, here is the old term that we've used for decades in South Australia. This is the Athens of the South. You've been after a sister city arrangement between Adelaide and Athens. Where is that at? I know you've met with the Greek mayor or the Athens mayor, I should say. to encourage that. Is the government over there, would they need to get involved with our government here to have a deal or is it just a Lord Mayor thing where Jane Lomax-Smith perhaps would have to sign off on that? Where's it at?
00:12:05
Speaker 2: First of all, I have to give the credit of the initiative to many of our representatives here in Adelaide, like Hellenic Australian Commerce Professional Association, also Greek-Australian politicians in the federal level, such as Steve Yorganas, but also in the state level that have been very much prone to encourage this idea. So when I arrived, one of the first things I found in my office was What's going on with this initiative? We would love to have this sistership relationship. So all I did was trying to help the realization of the project. So we sent a memorandum as a consulate to the mayor of Athens. showcasing all the great advantages of such a relationship. Our ambassador also endorsed and also expressed his interest in doing that when he met with our Lord Mayor Jane Lomax-Smith, who is also an amazing lady, a great lady, and a philhellen. This is an initiative she's interested in. I was back in Athens and I did meet with Mayor Dukas this summer together with Professor Andreas Takis, my partner, who I have to say he's... Very helpful, not only in my life, but in my work here as a consul.
00:13:39
Speaker 1: He's a professor of law, isn't he?
00:13:41
Speaker 2: He's a professor of jurisprudence, yes. And he has been visiting professor here at Flinders University. So I believe in the project. And there are many reasons why I believe. I think both cities have to earn from this project. even though we're far. It's culture, but it's also the environment, which has a very, very good score here in Adelaide. And I know Adelaide can teach us things up there in Athens. And Athens is a huge cultural hub that definitely could enhance the exchanges with Adelaide, with the festivals, the sports, and the tourism there. and many other sectors.
00:14:26
Speaker 1: So it'll be win-win, you think, for both?
00:14:28
Speaker 2: Yes. And one other thing that I think is very important is university and education. I think this is an opportunity for Adelaide to show and to give the importance, because I know that there are many professors of classics and archaeologists here, also to highlight the importance of learning Greek and going back to the classics for better policies and wiser administration.
00:14:59
Speaker 1: The role here, you're two years in now.
00:15:02
Speaker 2: Yes.
00:15:02
Speaker 1: Any surprises? Is Adelaide, I'd love you to say this is the best place you've ever been to.
00:15:07
Speaker 2: It is.
00:15:08
Speaker 1: You may not, though.
00:15:08
Speaker 2: It is my most, my best posting. Really? And I love it. And that's why I cannot stop doing things for the city as much as I can. Yes.
00:15:20
Speaker 1: I think you mean it.
00:15:22
Speaker 2: Well, it's up to you to say that.
00:15:24
Speaker 1: It sounded genuine. I'm going with you mean it, so that's good. The Espada here, the Greek community, how have you found it? I'm sure welcoming. I'm sure people connected to the homeland, et cetera. What are your impressions?
00:15:37
Speaker 2: I think it's a wonderful Greek community. I think that I know it's a Greek community that has gone through difficulties and challenges, but these challenges have been exacerbated wrongly Because what I see, wherever I go, whether I go to the Greek Orthodox community in Franklin Street or if I go to another association, if I go to the archdiocese, I see the same love. for Greece and everything Greek. I see the food. I see the dancing. I see the language. I see the interest even from the young generation. And I find it's great. And also, it's true what they say. You know, Aristotle, I think, used to say that there is a certain size for the city to be well functioning. And I think Adelaide has the size in terms not only of the area, but also the population. You can do miracles with a city like that. And last but not least, it's a city that has been founded by free settlers. And this makes a beautiful exceptionality. for the city and a spirit of freedom that is very well appreciated and cherished.
00:17:05
Speaker 1: Are we lucky enough to have you for a considerable period of time? What's next for you?
00:17:09
Speaker 2: I would be lucky as well to finish at least my four years, that is usually the case, even though I have been promoted to ambassador.
00:17:18
Speaker 1: Have you?
00:17:19
Speaker 2: Yes. Oh, wow. It's been now since the month of May. I can still stay as an ambassador. Ambassador in Adelaide. This is ambassador to South Australia because we do have an ambassador in Canberra. Don't misunderstand me.
00:17:34
Speaker 1: So you're not consul general anymore?
00:17:35
Speaker 2: I am consul general. I just have a promotion in terms of my career that could put me in a position of ambassador. But I am very happy to be a consul general with an ambassadorial level. In order for me to complete this work, I would like to do two coming years.
00:17:57
Speaker 1: An Athens of the South agreement would be number one, right?
00:18:00
Speaker 2: Yes.
00:18:01
Speaker 1: And more education, Greek education.
00:18:03
Speaker 2: Number two.
00:18:04
Speaker 1: Absolutely. Absolutely.
00:18:06
Speaker 2: You got it.
00:18:07
Speaker 1: What else? What else do you really want to achieve while you're here?
00:18:09
Speaker 2: More Greek citizens.
00:18:11
Speaker 1: Okay.
00:18:11
Speaker 2: Many Greek citizens do not have their passports. They should come, get their citizenship, have their passports.
00:18:19
Speaker 1: Have the dual citizenship, you mean?
00:18:21
Speaker 2: Exactly. The Greek passports now are one of the strongest passports worldwide. It gives access to... a very big number of countries without the need of a visa. It gives possibility of work and travelling in the European Union. And of course, the most important, it gives another incentive for the young people to go back to their roots. And I think this is very important. And of course, now it gives also the possibility to vote at the Greek elections.
00:18:58
Speaker 1: That's been a big drive over the last few years, the ability to vote overseas.
00:19:02
Speaker 2: Yes. And also there is no obligation of military service for the boys unless they decide to live in Europe. But then again, it is a very, very short period of time. It's like three months. Yes. can be even negotiated.
00:19:24
Speaker 1: So not as strict as it used to be. It was strict once upon a time. Maybe that's why I've been too scared to go back.
00:19:30
Speaker 2: Now there are many incentives.
00:19:32
Speaker 1: The new office here, people can come and visit and do all of the things you just spoke about. Get that passport, become citizens or any of the other diplomatic services you offer.
00:19:41
Speaker 2: We offer services. Many, many Greek Australians have property in Greece, heritage in Greece or business, so they need to make their power of attorney, or they need the papers to be validated, or they decided to move back, so we help them with all the administrative issues. We also help foreign citizens who need visa for Europe. We help registry in the Greek administrative registers. family union, anything that has to do with the connections. And of course, we offer programs for the youth, summer courses, summer camps as well. We work for businesses to work together. We are here to enhance the connection with Greek and to facilitate so that people are not losing their roots. And we are also covering Greek Australians from the Northern Territory.
00:20:43
Speaker 1: All right. So this office here administers the territory.
00:20:46
Speaker 2: Yes, yes, yes.
00:20:47
Speaker 1: That's a lot of responsibility. And I feel I've taken a lot of time because I'm sure you're busy.
00:20:52
Speaker 2: It's a precious time. And I'm happy that your audience hears about what we do and reach out to us if necessary.
00:21:03
Speaker 1: Dr. Alexandra Theodoropoulos, thank you so much for your time today. Consul General, Ambassador to Greece here in South Australia.
00:21:10
Speaker 2: Thank you very much, Mr. Pantelis. It was a great pleasure.
Speaker 1: I'm sitting in the beautiful new offices of the Consul General of Greece, Dr Alexandra Theodoropoulou, who has been here in Adelaide now for two years. And I was just saying to her, we've enjoyed a cup of coffee as we've been sitting here. I've dealt with consuls here over the last, I don't know, 10, 15 years, 20 years. And I don't think I've seen one as involved in the community as Dr Theodoropoulou is. Doctor, good afternoon. Thank you for your time.
00:00:28
Speaker 2: Good afternoon. It's a great pleasure to welcome you and your radio in our new premises.
00:00:36
Speaker 1: Thank you.
00:00:37
Speaker 2: I hope you entered with the right foot. You know what it means for us?
00:00:41
Speaker 1: Tell me. This is a traditional thing.
00:00:43
Speaker 2: Explain.
00:00:43
Speaker 1: Yes.
00:00:44
Speaker 2: In Greek, we call it podariko, which is something like podiatry, as you say. It comes from the foot. And it means when you enter a new office, you enter with your right foot. Okay.
00:00:55
Speaker 1: I think I did.
00:00:56
Speaker 2: Fantastic. So you're on the right side.
00:00:59
Speaker 1: I had to wait for the door to open, so of course. This is a good space, isn't it? This is where you've just moved here in the last few months. So what does it mean? What's the change mean, particularly for the Greek community here who will be coming to use the services you offer here?
00:01:12
Speaker 2: So we are situated in Curry Street, 41 Curry Street. I think it is important to be in the centre of the city, not only because it is... easily and equally accessible to the members of our community, but also it is a good point of reference for the city. We are one of the three, only three, career diplomatic consulates here in Adelaide. Our new offices are situated right next to the building where the Department of Foreign Affairs is located, with whom we cooperate very, very closely. We are also close to government buildings, the town hall, and this facilitates our administrative, but also our general operations. Protocol, culture and all these types of work also makes communication and exchange easier.
00:02:15
Speaker 1: The building is a Dalgety building or used to be for people who know older buildings in Adelaide next to Topham Place. So this is where you are now and obviously the services on offer here would be diplomatic services that one would expect from such an office. Let's talk about you a little bit. How did you end up here? Because I know you studied as a young woman across Europe, obviously in Athens, in different places, Brussels, Paris, and more. Strasbourg as well. You have a doctorate in political science is where that ended up. How did you end up in the diplomatic service?
00:02:47
Speaker 2: Well, this is a very good question, but you know how it is sometimes in life. It is a combination of choice and conditions. I have lived many years abroad as a student. And also as an intern, as a researcher, I studied most of my time in France, but also in Spain, in the Francophone world, believe it or not. But I think my English is okay because I have also served in the United States. And of course, English is a main language. Yes. So I was thinking... After all these years, I still have one point of reference, one attachment, and this is my own country. Having had such an international experience, because I also worked at UNESCO when I was in Paris, and I have also done some research for the United Nations and represented my country from a very early age, I thought this could be a job for me so that at least I can keep the connection. And indeed, in my case, diplomacy brought me closer to Greece. And I have spent quite some years serving in Athens at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, reconnecting in a way for myself and for my son to our motherland, to our language, which is also the language with which I write not only as a diplomat concerning the communication with Athens, but also as a writer.
00:04:33
Speaker 1: And you are a writer. We'll explore that in a bit. Firstly, Paris. This is a professional question now. We've seen some terrible scenes. I'm sure the Greek government, as our government here in Australia, would be reaching out to the French government to consult in this terrible time they've had over there.
00:04:49
Speaker 2: You are talking about the most recent demonstrations.
00:04:53
Speaker 1: It must pain you as somebody who's lived in Paris too to see that.
00:04:56
Speaker 2: My sister, I have family. My sister and my nephew live in Paris. And of course, having lived and studied there, I get reports from my friends. Yeah. France is going through a very, very difficult time, but we have also gone through that in Greece. And you might be aware our years of crisis were also years of turmoil, of revolt from the youth. The sad thing is when this type of crisis happen, the young people pay the price and there is a lot of rage indeed. Of course, we have consulates in Paris, obviously, and the embassy are there to assist the Greek citizens that might have been involved or in danger with the situation. At the same time, France is a very important ally. All we want is to see our close partner stand on its feet and go through this crisis together. in the best possible way. It is very sad, this shadow of economic crisis, because that's where it starts. Of course, again, we have been the first to experience this goes as far as the heart of Europe. as one of the biggest and most important European countries, which is France.
00:06:30
Speaker 1: To your writing, you're a published author. Where did this love of language come from? You've written poetry. You've taken some of the Odyssey and expanded on it, as if what would the conversation have been between Odysseus and Calypso? You've done a lot of work. Obviously, you love poetry. You love writing. Where does this come from?
00:06:50
Speaker 2: It comes from within, from inside. That's the most sure. Why do people write? And especially busy people like me, one would answer.
00:07:01
Speaker 1: Would question.
00:07:03
Speaker 2: I devote some of my most precious time to the writing. It's like my prayer. It's like my meditation. It's what I owe to myself and to the world. Obviously, if things come out of My soul, it's for some reason, things that probably have not been told and I feel like that they need to be told or things that may give pleasure to the reader. I've also written philosophy books. I have published an extensive research on ancient Greece and the ancient ritual and the connection with rituals that one can observe even today amongst indigenous people because I am interested in that side of history that has to do with mythology and ritual. It's probably also my tendency, my academic tendencies that were exposed there, but I I don't write as an academic. I like to write in a popularized way for people to understand as much as possible.
00:08:08
Speaker 1: No one likes reading the work of academics other than other academics, I think.
00:08:12
Speaker 2: No comment on that.
00:08:15
Speaker 1: You've spoken at different events here, most recently the Greek Writers Festival, about some of your work and the importance of language. I know you're on a drive to encourage the Greek language amongst schools in SA, amongst anyone who wants to learn it. And I think universities have been under pressure offering Greek courses here in the state of late. Are you concerned by that? How do we keep the Greek language prominent?
00:08:41
Speaker 2: By understanding its amazing value. It's been now a couple of years that UNESCO, United Nations Organization for Cultural Education, has dedicated world... Greek Language Day, which is February 9th. It is the day Dionysios Solomos, our national poet, the poet who wrote our national anthem, passed away. It's the memory of this poet. This is a great recognition because it shows the universal value of our language, of the Greek language. And of course, this is not the moment to start talking about that because it has been also the object of my lectures. I would say I am not only a guardian, I see myself as a propagandist of the Greek language, if I may say so. It is in the roots of most Western languages. given that Latin, which is the source of most European languages, comes, is derived from the Greek in terms of structure and in terms of using the alphabetical writing and having... a certain organization of language. And of course, all the Greek words that have been used and passed from the Latin to the other languages, not only from the past to the future, but from the Greek language has been used also for modern concepts, for new ideas, for sciences. Why? Because it gives some sort of precision and, believe it or not, prestige. It gives accuracy and it gives prestige because it connects the past, the beginnings, the origins with the future. So I strongly encourage young people to learn Greek, especially, of course, those who are of Greek origin. One of my most important works here in Adelaide is not only to encourage but to help institution building around education. greek language whether it's in primary secondary but also tertiary education.
00:11:12
Speaker 1: So you see that as a driving goal as consul general to encourage.
00:11:15
Speaker 2: That absolutely i think that the greek language is our most precious heritage and we can only win with learning our language not only mentally intellectually but culturally.
00:11:32
Speaker 1: As well I know one of your other key projects, if you like, here is the old term that we've used for decades in South Australia. This is the Athens of the South. You've been after a sister city arrangement between Adelaide and Athens. Where is that at? I know you've met with the Greek mayor or the Athens mayor, I should say. to encourage that. Is the government over there, would they need to get involved with our government here to have a deal or is it just a Lord Mayor thing where Jane Lomax-Smith perhaps would have to sign off on that? Where's it at?
00:12:05
Speaker 2: First of all, I have to give the credit of the initiative to many of our representatives here in Adelaide, like Hellenic Australian Commerce Professional Association, also Greek-Australian politicians in the federal level, such as Steve Yorganas, but also in the state level that have been very much prone to encourage this idea. So when I arrived, one of the first things I found in my office was What's going on with this initiative? We would love to have this sistership relationship. So all I did was trying to help the realization of the project. So we sent a memorandum as a consulate to the mayor of Athens. showcasing all the great advantages of such a relationship. Our ambassador also endorsed and also expressed his interest in doing that when he met with our Lord Mayor Jane Lomax-Smith, who is also an amazing lady, a great lady, and a philhellen. This is an initiative she's interested in. I was back in Athens and I did meet with Mayor Dukas this summer together with Professor Andreas Takis, my partner, who I have to say he's... Very helpful, not only in my life, but in my work here as a consul.
00:13:39
Speaker 1: He's a professor of law, isn't he?
00:13:41
Speaker 2: He's a professor of jurisprudence, yes. And he has been visiting professor here at Flinders University. So I believe in the project. And there are many reasons why I believe. I think both cities have to earn from this project. even though we're far. It's culture, but it's also the environment, which has a very, very good score here in Adelaide. And I know Adelaide can teach us things up there in Athens. And Athens is a huge cultural hub that definitely could enhance the exchanges with Adelaide, with the festivals, the sports, and the tourism there. and many other sectors.
00:14:26
Speaker 1: So it'll be win-win, you think, for both?
00:14:28
Speaker 2: Yes. And one other thing that I think is very important is university and education. I think this is an opportunity for Adelaide to show and to give the importance, because I know that there are many professors of classics and archaeologists here, also to highlight the importance of learning Greek and going back to the classics for better policies and wiser administration.
00:14:59
Speaker 1: The role here, you're two years in now.
00:15:02
Speaker 2: Yes.
00:15:02
Speaker 1: Any surprises? Is Adelaide, I'd love you to say this is the best place you've ever been to.
00:15:07
Speaker 2: It is.
00:15:08
Speaker 1: You may not, though.
00:15:08
Speaker 2: It is my most, my best posting. Really? And I love it. And that's why I cannot stop doing things for the city as much as I can. Yes.
00:15:20
Speaker 1: I think you mean it.
00:15:22
Speaker 2: Well, it's up to you to say that.
00:15:24
Speaker 1: It sounded genuine. I'm going with you mean it, so that's good. The Espada here, the Greek community, how have you found it? I'm sure welcoming. I'm sure people connected to the homeland, et cetera. What are your impressions?
00:15:37
Speaker 2: I think it's a wonderful Greek community. I think that I know it's a Greek community that has gone through difficulties and challenges, but these challenges have been exacerbated wrongly Because what I see, wherever I go, whether I go to the Greek Orthodox community in Franklin Street or if I go to another association, if I go to the archdiocese, I see the same love. for Greece and everything Greek. I see the food. I see the dancing. I see the language. I see the interest even from the young generation. And I find it's great. And also, it's true what they say. You know, Aristotle, I think, used to say that there is a certain size for the city to be well functioning. And I think Adelaide has the size in terms not only of the area, but also the population. You can do miracles with a city like that. And last but not least, it's a city that has been founded by free settlers. And this makes a beautiful exceptionality. for the city and a spirit of freedom that is very well appreciated and cherished.
00:17:05
Speaker 1: Are we lucky enough to have you for a considerable period of time? What's next for you?
00:17:09
Speaker 2: I would be lucky as well to finish at least my four years, that is usually the case, even though I have been promoted to ambassador.
00:17:18
Speaker 1: Have you?
00:17:19
Speaker 2: Yes. Oh, wow. It's been now since the month of May. I can still stay as an ambassador. Ambassador in Adelaide. This is ambassador to South Australia because we do have an ambassador in Canberra. Don't misunderstand me.
00:17:34
Speaker 1: So you're not consul general anymore?
00:17:35
Speaker 2: I am consul general. I just have a promotion in terms of my career that could put me in a position of ambassador. But I am very happy to be a consul general with an ambassadorial level. In order for me to complete this work, I would like to do two coming years.
00:17:57
Speaker 1: An Athens of the South agreement would be number one, right?
00:18:00
Speaker 2: Yes.
00:18:01
Speaker 1: And more education, Greek education.
00:18:03
Speaker 2: Number two.
00:18:04
Speaker 1: Absolutely. Absolutely.
00:18:06
Speaker 2: You got it.
00:18:07
Speaker 1: What else? What else do you really want to achieve while you're here?
00:18:09
Speaker 2: More Greek citizens.
00:18:11
Speaker 1: Okay.
00:18:11
Speaker 2: Many Greek citizens do not have their passports. They should come, get their citizenship, have their passports.
00:18:19
Speaker 1: Have the dual citizenship, you mean?
00:18:21
Speaker 2: Exactly. The Greek passports now are one of the strongest passports worldwide. It gives access to... a very big number of countries without the need of a visa. It gives possibility of work and travelling in the European Union. And of course, the most important, it gives another incentive for the young people to go back to their roots. And I think this is very important. And of course, now it gives also the possibility to vote at the Greek elections.
00:18:58
Speaker 1: That's been a big drive over the last few years, the ability to vote overseas.
00:19:02
Speaker 2: Yes. And also there is no obligation of military service for the boys unless they decide to live in Europe. But then again, it is a very, very short period of time. It's like three months. Yes. can be even negotiated.
00:19:24
Speaker 1: So not as strict as it used to be. It was strict once upon a time. Maybe that's why I've been too scared to go back.
00:19:30
Speaker 2: Now there are many incentives.
00:19:32
Speaker 1: The new office here, people can come and visit and do all of the things you just spoke about. Get that passport, become citizens or any of the other diplomatic services you offer.
00:19:41
Speaker 2: We offer services. Many, many Greek Australians have property in Greece, heritage in Greece or business, so they need to make their power of attorney, or they need the papers to be validated, or they decided to move back, so we help them with all the administrative issues. We also help foreign citizens who need visa for Europe. We help registry in the Greek administrative registers. family union, anything that has to do with the connections. And of course, we offer programs for the youth, summer courses, summer camps as well. We work for businesses to work together. We are here to enhance the connection with Greek and to facilitate so that people are not losing their roots. And we are also covering Greek Australians from the Northern Territory.
00:20:43
Speaker 1: All right. So this office here administers the territory.
00:20:46
Speaker 2: Yes, yes, yes.
00:20:47
Speaker 1: That's a lot of responsibility. And I feel I've taken a lot of time because I'm sure you're busy.
00:20:52
Speaker 2: It's a precious time. And I'm happy that your audience hears about what we do and reach out to us if necessary.
00:21:03
Speaker 1: Dr. Alexandra Theodoropoulos, thank you so much for your time today. Consul General, Ambassador to Greece here in South Australia.
00:21:10
Speaker 2: Thank you very much, Mr. Pantelis. It was a great pleasure.
