Category: Interviews

📚A twofold event-tribute to the legacy of one of the greatest modern Greek authors, Nikos Kazantzakis (1883–1957), and his special relationship with China, was co-organized by the Embassy of Greece in China and the Center for Chinese and Greek Civilisations at Southwest University in Chongqing, on Wednesday, December 3.

Greek experts from the International Society of Friends of Nikos Kazantzakis (ISFNK), who travelled to China, delivered keynote speeches on the global impact of Kazantzakis' work to a large audience of scholars and students.

In his opening remarks, the Ambassador of Greece to China, Dr Evgenios Kalpyris, highlighted Kazantzakis' contribution to Greek literature, linking it to the recent UNESCO declaration of February 9 as World Greek Language Day. Professor Cui Yanqiang of Southwest University highlighted the event’s role in deepening the understanding of shared values between Chinese and Greek civilizations.

The program also included a tribute to Li Chenggui, Chinese translator of Kazantzakis, with speeches focusing on Kazantzakis' worldwide impact as well as his special relationship with China. The internationally acclaimed Greek film Kazantzakis by Yannis Smaragdis was screened after the speeches, followed by a discussion with students. The event aimed to promote mutual cultural understanding, and the Greek delegation later met with Southwest University’s President to discuss future collaborations.

📌ESM and EFSF enable third early repayment of GLF loans
The Boards of Directors of the European Stability Mechanism (ESM) and European Financial Stability Facility (EFSF) have agreed to waive the mandatory proportional repayment obligation of ESM/EFSF loans in connection with an early repayment to Greek Loan Facility (GLF) lenders. The Board of Directors of the European Stability Mechanism (ESM) also approved the use of funds from a dedicated cash buffer account, created at the end of the adjustment program, to carry out this prepayment.
Under the ESM and EFSF loan agreements with Greece, upon early repayment to certain official creditors, including the GLF lenders, a proportional amount of the financial assistance provided under ESM and EFSF facilities becomes immediately due and payable. Thanks to the waivers granted, Greece will not be required to make a proportionate early repayment to either institution.
“Greece continues to make notable progress in strengthening its economy. This additional early repayment of the GLF loan sends another positive signal to financial markets, improves Greece’s debt structure, and reflects the country’s improving fiscal position. The ESM and EFSF remain committed to supporting the Greek authorities in their efforts to foster long-term growth and ensure debt sustainability,” said Pierre Gramegna, ESM Managing Director and EFSF CEO.
Read more via Αθηναϊκό - Μακεδονικό Πρακτορείο Ειδήσεων
https://www.amna.gr/home/article/953325/Prasino-fos-apo-ESM-EFSF-gia-apopliromi-daneion-upsous-5-29-dis-apo-tin-Ellada