The Grand Cross of Saint Mark was presented to the Minister of Education, Religious Affairs and Sports by Patriarch Theodore II of Alexandria and All Africa during the former’s visit to the Patriarchate of Alexandria. Kyriakos Pierrakakis signed two memoranda of understanding with the Patriarch.

In a post on social media, Pierrakakis called it “a supreme honor” and noted that it is “a reminder of our debt to this Ark of Orthodoxy and Hellenism.”

From the Patriarchate of Alexandria, Mr. Pierrakakis announced the decision of the Greek government to ensure the salary, insurance and pension rights of the Clergy who selflessly serve the Homogeneity throughout the world.

Memoranda of Understanding

According to the minister’s post, two memoranda of understanding were signed between the two sides, “consistent with the government’s commitment to serve the preservation of Greek heritage, the promotion of knowledge in the terms of the 21st century and unhindered access to Greek education and training.”

According to sources at the Ministry of Education, the two memoranda of understanding signed by Kyriakos Pierrakakis with the Patriarchate concern:

– The digitization and cataloguing of the historical archives of the Patriarchate of Alexandria and All Africa by the General State Archives; and

– The possibility for students from all schools in Africa to study in the Ecclesiastical Schools of Greece.

“It is our contribution, one more small stone, to the over millennial presence and contribution of the Patriarchate of Alexandria”, said Mr. Pierrakakis, noting that “the Greek Community of Alexandria has always been a support and life force for the Hellenism of Africa”.