On Friday, September 8, the President of the French Republic, Emmanuel Macron, along with Greek Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras visited the Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center (SNFCC), where a meeting with members of the French and Greek business communities took place. The event was hosted at the Lighthouse, SNFCC's highest point, which is located on top of the Greek National Opera building, offering a panoramic view towards the sea and the city of Athens.
The French President and the Greek Prime Minister were welcomed by Mr. Nikos Manolopoulos, SNFCC's Managing Director and Ambassador Vassilis Kaskarelis, Member of the Executive Management Team of the Stavros Niarchos Foundation.
Both leaders mentioned SNFCC in their remarks.
During its introductory speech, Emmanuel Macron noted that: “We’re at this wonderful building. Beyond its architectural beauty, beyond the surrounding landscape, it has become the symbol of a new Greek ambition.”
Furthermore, the Greek Prime Minister stated that SNFCC is “… an institution that symbolizes the comeback of Greece and the Greek economy, because this beautiful space, which hosts the Greek National Opera and the National Library of Greece, was created amidst the crisis, and was inaugurated almost a year ago, changing the perception of Greek citizens, Athenians and visitors about the potential of this country. I also believe that it represents an exceptionally positive example of private-public partnership.”
On Thursday, September 7, Ms. Brigitte Macron, accompanied by Ms. Betty Baziana toured SNFCC and the Stavros Niarchos Park. At the café of the Stavros Niarchos Park, they had the opportunity to meet Greek scientists and researchers from cutting-edge technology sectors.
In the past, more Heads of State have honored the SNFCC with their presence, including former President of the United States, Barack Obama, former President of the French Republic, François Hollande and former Prime Minister of Italy, Matteo Renzi. In addition, the SNFCC has been the host of numerous key international meetings, such as the EU Summit of European Affairs Ministers.
