Greek Envoy Presents Credentials
By Yusuf Alghali

The newly accredited Greek ambassador to Sierra Leone, His Excellency Mr. Christoforos Giovas, has said that the government of the Hellenic Republic would include Sierra Leonean military officers in its military scholarship scheme by the next academic year. Ambassador Giovas, who made the commitment on the occasion of the presentation of his credentials at the Presidential Lodge Tuesday, 6th April 2004, indicated that proposals in respect of the scholarships would be made shortly after returning to his base in Abuja, Nigeria.

In spite of the devastation caused by years of civil conflict, the envoy observed that Sierra Leoneans now appeared to be generally optimistic and noted that with its natural beauty and hotel infrastructure the country was now poised to be a tourist haven once again. Mr. Giovas also made reference to the once famous Greek-owned department store in Freetown - Patterson Zochonis, popularly referred to as PZ - and hinted that the company might consider a resumption of their operations in Sierra Leone.

President Kabbah, who welcomed the envoy's "determination to consolidate the excellent relations existing between the two countries", expressed hope that the friendship and close cooperation would develop to their mutual benefit, particularly in the fields of mining and agriculture. He expressed both his government's commitment in solidifying this relationship as well as its readiness in broadening the scope of economic and social ties in the spirit of globalisation.

On behalf of the government and people of Sierra Leone, the President also wished the government and people of Greece "a successful hosting of the 2004 Olympic games". He said: "Let the games begin and let the Olympic spirit prevail…. This spirit will bind us all together in camaraderie and brotherhood. It would enhance the clarion call for unity and friendship. It will preoccupy us in the quest for peace and freedom and dissuade us from war and conflict."

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