On Thursday, 24 July 2025, the Deputy Minister of National Defence Thanasis Davakis welcomed in the Ministry of National Defence the delegation of the World Hellenic Inter-Parliamentary Association (WHIA), in the context of their official visit to Greece.

During the meeting, matters were discussed regarding the role of the Greek Expatriates in maintaining the ties of the Diaspora with the homeland, the reinforcement of the international presence of Hellenism, as well as their contribution in the promotion of the Greek stance worldwide.

After cordially welcoming its members, Mr Davakis referred to the decisive role that the expatriate members of the Parliament of Greek origin play in the international setting, interfering in crucial matters concerning Greece.

Addressing the delegation he stated: “With your initiatives for Cyprus, the national matters and actions as well, for the repatriation of the Parthenon Marbles, the promotion of economic, commercial, touristic and cultural ties with the nations that your members are involved in, you stressed the fact that the Hellenism of Diaspora does not forget. To the contrary, it contests, defends and legislates” and he continued “Your presence here constitutes the restoration to the values, restoration to the roots, restoration to the motherland. Greece thanks you. Greece needs you. Greece honours you”.

On their part, the members of the WHIA expressed their admiration and support for the work of the Hellenic Armed Forces, stressing their desire to continue operating as a bridge of communication and reinforcement of the relations between the Greeks of the Diaspora and the motherland.

The meeting concluded cordially, with presentation of commemorative gifts, as evidence of appreciation and symbolism to the President of the Board of Directors of the Association and Senator of Rhode Island, Leonidas Raptakis and Alec Skarlatos, Member of the Oregon House of Representatives.