Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis will make an official visit to Mount Athos on Friday and Saturday, despite initial opposition from several monasteries over government policies.

The announcement comes days after strong reactions from a significant portion of monasteries that had questioned the prime minister’s visit. At least seven monastery abbots had declared they would not attend the prime minister’s reception ceremony, citing government decisions that “offend religious sentiment and the beliefs of Orthodox Christians.”

The opposition was expressed openly last week during a Holy Community meeting.They criticized Mitsotakis for policies they claimed insult Christian believers, particularly legislation allowing same-sex marriage and adoption. However, an invitation signed by the Holy Community of Mount Athos showed all 20 holy monasteries welcome the prime minister.

Source: Ekathimerini.com