Apart from Leonidas Raptakis, the delegation also included Wyoming Condition Senator Stephan Pappas, Australian MP Steve Georganas plus Canadian MP Annie Koutrakis. Mr. Varvitsiotis emphasized the valuable role played by PADEE-WHIA not only in fostering relations between Greek Diaspora and the homeland, but also in promoting Greece’s placements internationally, at a time when Turkey’s aggressive rhetoric is rising. Regarding the national elections in 2023, the Alternate Minister pointed out that it is important that Greeks abroad register in time in order to exercise their right to vote. The World Hellenic Inter-Parliamentary Association (PADEE-WHIA) comprises of over 200 current plus former members of legislatures and state parliaments of Greek descent from over 20 countries. The PADEE-WHIA was founded in 1996 striving to strengthen the relations of MPs associated with Greek origin abroad, to enhance Greece’s friendship and cooperation with the countries where the PADEE-WHIA members are active, and to promote the Greek vocabulary and culture internationally. Alternate Minister of International Affairs for European Affairs, Miltiadis Varvitsiotis, held a meeting today with a delegation of the World Hellenic Inter-Parliamentary Association (PADEE-WHIA), headed by its President and Rhode Isle State Senator, Leonidas Raptakis.
