Hosted by Business Sydney in partnership with the Hellenic Club of Sydney, the event on Tuesday night brought together influential figures from business, government and the Greek Australian community, signalling strong support for deeper economic and strategic engagement between the two countries.
Also formally welcomed was Christina Stefanidou, Counsellor for Economic and Trade Affairs and Head of the Office for Economic and Commercial Affairs, whose role is expected to be central in advancing commercial partnerships across key sectors including shipping, tourism, energy and innovation.
The evening served not merely as a diplomatic introduction, but as an early platform outlining priorities and opportunities for expanded bilateral cooperation.
With the support of Con and Kerrie of the Dedes Waterfront Group, the reception attracted a broad cross-section of leaders keen to engage with Greece’s new diplomatic team at the outset of their tenure in Australia.
The atmosphere reflected both pride within the Greek Australian community and clear business interest in strengthening trade and investment channels.
Executive Director of Business Sydney Paul Nicolaou set the tone for the evening, welcoming guests and acknowledging dignitaries before the national anthems of Greece and Australia were played.
His Grace Bishop Iakovos of Miletoupolis, representing the Archbishop Mr Makarios, emphasised the enduring spiritual and cultural bonds that underpin the long-standing relationship between the two nations.
Representing the state government and Premier Chris Minns, was the Minister for Finance, Domestic Manufacturing and Government Procurement and Natural Resources. Courtney Houssos. In her remarks she highlighted the significant contribution of Greek Australians to New South Wales’ economic and social fabric.
Hellenic Club President Nick Hatzistergos, who introduced the Consul General, elaborated on the 100 years that the Club celebrates this year and its services and highlights throughout the centenary.
In outlining his priorities, Mr Skemperis pointed to the importance of strengthening bilateral engagement not only at a diplomatic level but through tangible commercial and cultural initiatives.
Ms Stefanidou reinforced this outlook, focusing on practical pathways for collaboration between Greek and Australian enterprises and identifying sectors where mutual growth opportunities are strongest.
A moderated discussion following the formal addresses provided further insight into Greece’s economic direction and offered opportunities to explore potential areas of cooperation directly with the new diplomatic leadership.
The evening concluded with a vote of thanks from Hellenic Club Board Member Christine Kanellakis, bringing to a close an event that many attendees viewed as a positive and timely step in reinforcing ties between Sydney and NSW with Greece.
Reflecting on the turnout and engagement, Paul Nicolaou noted the depth of goodwill present on the night.
“This reception demonstrated the enduring strength of our cultural and commercial ties with Greece and highlighted the important role diplomacy, business and community play in shaping future opportunities,” Mr Nicolaou said.
Among the attendees were the president of the Greek Orthodox Community of NSW Con Apoifis, the acting chair of SBS Board, Nick Pappas, Head of Corporate Affairs at Football Federation of Australia (FFA) George Houssos, former leader of the National Party and minister George Souris and others.
