Speaker of the Hellenic Parliament visits the Archdiocese ahead of parade

Nikitas Kaklamanis, President of the Hellenic Parliament, was formally welcomed today by Archbishop Elpidophoros of America at the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America during an official visit to the United States. He was accompanied by Athanasios Papathanasis of New Democracy and Georgios Gavrilos of Syriza

President Kaklamanis is in the country to attend the annual Greek Independence Day Parade, scheduled to take place Sunday in New York City.

During their meeting, Archbishop Elpidophoros emphasized the close relationship between Greece, the Archdiocese and the broader Greek American community, underscoring the importance of maintaining these bonds across generations.

President Kaklamanis described his visit as particularly significant, as it coincides with major historical anniversaries, including the 205th anniversary of the War of Greek Independence, the 250th anniversary of the American Revolution, and the 200th anniversary of the Exodus of Messolonghi—a pivotal moment in Greece’s struggle for independence.

He noted that his decision to attend this year’s parade was primarily made following a personal phone call from Archbishop Elpidophoros extending the invitation. His participation marks the first time since 2008 that a sitting president of Greece has attended the New York City parade.

Earlier, students from the Hellenic College of Thessaloniki visited the Archdiocese and had the opportunity to meet with Archbishop Elpidophoros. The group will also attend Sunday’s parade.