Gov-G and Mr Beckett SC had an esteemed meeting with His All-Holiness Partriarch

The Governor-General and Mr Beckett SC had an esteemed meeting with His All-Holiness Patriarch Bartholomew I at the Orthodox Patriarchate in Istanbul. This encounter served as a continuation of the warm relations established when the Patriarch visited Australia last year and was received by the Governor-General at Admiralty House.

During their discussion, the Australian delegation conveyed heartfelt greetings from the Orthodox community in Australia and expressed their appreciation for the time he had spent with them, emphasizing his messages of peace, empathy, and environmental stewardship. The conversation also touched upon the late Pope Francis, whom the Patriarch had considered a cherished friend. They offered their condolences and reflected on the Pope's significant contributions to fostering unity and understanding among different faiths across the globe.

Prior to their tête-à-tête, the guests were treated to a tour of the stunning Orthodox Patriarchate guided by Grand Archimandrite Iakovos. This meeting underscores the strong ties between the Australian government and the Orthodox Church, as well as their shared commitment to promoting peace and interfaith harmony.