By Michalis Psilos

Greece needs to acquire a modern oceanographic research vessel as soon as possible, the country's representative to UNESCO, Georgios Koumoutsakos, said in an interview with Naftemporiki.

Asked how important UNESCO is to Greece, he replied: "UNESCO, in terms of its philosophy and mission, is an international organization that suits Greece. Even its logo directly references a building of ancient Greek architecture. If UNESCO did not exist, Greece would have had to invent it. In this organization, we must steadily deepen our national imprint. Dialogue, culture, classical timeless values, but also modern Greek cultural creation are important factors in our national strength. We are a small country, with enormous—but inexhaustible—cultural potential. In essence, we are a cultural superpower. UNESCO can give us this international recognition. We just need to approach it with seriousness, strategic thinking, and planning. To constantly aim higher."

February 9 — World Greek Language Day

Referring to the diplomatic initiative to establish February 9 as World Greek Language Day, he underlined that "this was a unanimous decision of historic importance. A great success for the country's public and cultural diplomacy. It will be formally ratified in November by the General Conference of the Organization in Samarkand, Uzbekistan. The Greek language has acquired a golden international certificate of historical continuity and 3,000 years of contribution to world civilization. A golden passport."

Koumoutsakos stressed the need to "carry" this "passport" everywhere in the world. The challenge is to make learning the Greek language "trendy"—a global spiritual trend. Here, the Greek diaspora, especially its economically powerful members, has a bright field of glory.

"In this nationwide invitation to promote the Greek language, our diplomatic and consular authorities around the world have a special and important role. The close cooperation and effective coordination of all relevant ministries—Foreign Affairs, Education, Culture, Finance—is required. The Church and, of course, all political forces are called upon to play a very important role. The purpose is historical and national. No one is left out," he added.

The Parthenon Marbles

Asked about the Parthenon Marbles, he stated: "We must remind the readers of Naftemporiki that Greece's first official request for the repatriation and reunification of the Parthenon masterpieces was made in 1836—just six years after the declaration of independence of the modern Greek state! It is a timeless, national, and inexorable request. This request became global the moment it was registered on the UNESCO agenda in 1987.

Since then, all the relevant decisions of the Organization justify Greece's request. Recently, in June 2024, we achieved another very positive decision, with 17 states giving explicit support to Greece, compared to zero in favor of the United Kingdom's position. In a few words, the score was 17–0. The government is working seriously, persistently, and quietly for our historical vindication. The obsession with denial will eventually be overcome. How long will injustice resist justice and the demands of history? When you fight the centuries, the centuries always win. Sooner or later, this very difficult case will be won. I believe it. The reunification of the Parthenon sculptures will become a reality."