Addressing his 350 guests at the annual White House reception in honor of the 192nd anniversary of the March 25 Greek national Independence Day, which marks the start of the Greek revolution against Ottoman rule on March 25, 1821, Obama noted that the United States and Greece have always stood side-by-side, and stressed the US' solidarity wit Greece for the restructuring of its economy.
Speaking warmly of Greece and the Greek heritage, he said that each year America celebrates Greek Independence Day and the enhancement of the ties between the birthplace e of democracy and the oldest democracy in the world, adding that "we reflect on the ancient Greek principles that inspired our nation's founders to consolidate the authorities of the government in the hands of the people".
He said that the people of the US and Greece have learned the democracy flourishes "when we respect our differences, insist on the principles that unite us, and proceed with a common purpose".
IN his own greeting to the event, Vice-President Biden noted Greece and liberty are identical meanings", and noted the achievements of the Greek-American community, lauding the contribution of the Greeks of the US to the enhancement of Greek-US relations.
Archbishop Demetrios, in turn, noted that "we are at the side of those who fight to strengthen freedom. And we pray that we will all one day see the prevalence of peace, justice and the power of love".
The event was also attended by members of Congress and other government officials of Greek descent, and prominent members of the Greek-American community. (AMNA)
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