Athens (TDI): The Hellenic Republic celebrated its Independence Day, marking the 204th anniversary of the 1821 War of Independence against Ottoman rule, on March 25.
The country celebrated this significant day with a series of events highlighting Greece’s enduring spirit, strength, and rich cultural heritage.
Grand Military Parade in Athens
The celebrations started with the grand military parade held at Syntagma Square in Athens. The event commenced at 11:00 AM in front of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and was attended by President Konstantinos Tassoulas, along with esteemed political and military leaders.
The parade showcased the strength and unity of the Greek armed forces and also featured marching units, military vehicles, and aerial displays of the fighter jets.
Traditional Ceremonies and Cultural Festivities
Festivities began early in the morning with 21 ceremonial gun salutes fired from Lycabettus Hill. Military bands filled the streets of central Athens with traditional melodies, setting a patriotic environment for the day.
The most notable event was the national flag raising ceremony, which was raised at the Acropolis, symbolizing Greece’s enduring freedom, independence and sovereignty.
A special religious service was held at the Metropolitan Cathedral of Athens, officiated by Archbishop Ieronymos II, reflecting the deep connection between the Greek Orthodox Church and the nation’s history.
Throughout the country, local communities participated in parades, cultural performances, and educational events, emphasizing the significance of this day in Greek history.
The celebrations culminated with the official lowering of the flag at the Acropolis by evening, accompanied by another round of 21 gun salutes, bringing the day’s commemorations to a close.
Pakistan Extended Wishes
Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Pakistan extended congratulations on this occasion to the people and the Government of the Hellenic Republic.
On the ocassion of independence day of Hellenic Republic, we extend our heartfelt felicitations to its people and government. @GreeceMFA @PakinGreece
🇵🇰🤝🇬🇷 pic.twitter.com/Asj5yzV07f
— Ministry of Foreign Affairs – Pakistan (@ForeignOfficePk) March 25, 2025
The significance of Greece’s Independence Day resonated globally. In the United States, President Donald J. Trump issued a proclamation in recognition of the Day.
The proclamation highlighted shared democratic values and historical ties between the two nations, acknowledging the profound influence of Greek philosophy on America’s founding principles.
Other states also extended their heartfelt congratulations to Greece on their independence day including Saudi Arabia, United Kingdom, Chille, Serbia, Austria, Oman, and Dominican Republic.
Greece and Pakistan Relations
Greece and Pakistan established diplomatic relations in 1975 and have since cooperated in various fields. They share historical ties, with the Kalash people in Pakistan having cultural similarities to ancient Greeks.
Notably, political relations are friendly, with both countries engaging in regular diplomatic dialogue. Greece supports peaceful resolutions to regional disputes involving Pakistan.
Economic ties are growing, with trade valued at around $101 million in 2021. Tourism and cultural exchanges are also areas of potential collaboration.
In May 2024, the Fourth Round of Pakistan-Greece Bilateral Political Consultations took place in Athens, where officials discussed the importance of bilateral ties and agreed to collaborate on issues of mutual interest.
A large Pakistani community resides in Greece, contributing to its economic growth. Both countries continue to strengthen ties through diplomacy, trade, economy, and cultural connections.
Areeba Kanwal is a contributor at The Diplomatic Insight and has passion for International Relations and diplomacy.
