Greek politicians said their final farewell to Archbishop Anastasios of Albania after his passing on Saturday morning

Politicians praised Archbishop Anastasios’s contributions to Orthodoxy, his commitment to peace and understanding, his academic and theological writings, and his service to communities in need.

Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis expressed condolences, highlighting the Archbishop’s invaluable prominence as an Orthodox cleric: “His contribution to Orthodoxy is invaluable, with his stamp remaining indelible not only in our neighboring country but in every corner of the earth where Hellenism lives and breathes.” 

Mitsotakis commended the Archbishop’s role as a spiritual leader, his advocacy for human rights, and his efforts to strengthen ties between Greece and Albania. “I was fortunate to know and work with the Hierarch who combined the dynamism of faith with natural gentleness, as well as national duty with altruism,” stated Mitsotakis. “A personality who became a bridge of understanding between two states. These are characteristics that make our mourning heavier; but also make the Archbishop’s legacy all the more precious to all.”

President Katerina Sakellaropoulou paid tribute to the Archbishop’s legacy of promoting peace and dialogue. She described him as “a leading personality who combined theological reflection with tireless service, leaving behind a great pastoral, social, educational, and charitable work.” She emphasized his opposition to intolerance and his commitment to fraternity, noting that his values “will always continue to move us.”

Former Prime Minister Kostas Karamanlis expressed condolences for the Archbishop, calling him “a wise, modest, and gentle man, a charismatic Hierarch, and a great figure of Orthodoxy and Hellenism.” Karamanlis praised his contributions to rebuilding the Orthodox Church in Albania and fostering peaceful coexistence in the Balkans. “Above all, his words of love, his actions of social solidarity, and his contribution to inter-religious dialogue will be remembered with love and gratitude.”

Former Prime Minister Antonis Samaras described Archbishop Anastasios as “a bright beacon of ecumenical Orthodoxy.” He noted the Archbishop’s remarkable achievements in restoring the Orthodox Church in Albania after decades of oppression. “Sweet and gentle as a person, Archbishop Anastasios radiated spirituality, so necessary for our times,” he said. Samaras also highlighted the Archbishop’s advocacy for the Greek minority and his efforts to promote peace in the Balkans.

Nikos Androulakis, President of PASOK, reflected on the Archbishop’s legacy of humility and solidarity. “Anastasios was deeply educated and one of the most influential prelates throughout his career,” he said. Androulakis praised his role in rebuilding the Autocephalous Church of Albania and fostering Greek-Albanian relations. “He symbolized humility and tireless missionary activity, serving as a model for Orthodox Christians around the world.”

Minister of Education, Religious Affairs, and Sports, Kyriakos Pierrakakis, described the Archbishop as “a charismatic Hierarch, an internationally renowned personality endowed with wisdom and vision.” He emphasized the Archbishop’s accomplishments, from rebuilding 400 parishes to establishing schools and health centers. “He was a warrior against intolerance and nationalist fanaticism, highlighting fraternity and respect for the rights of our fellow countrymen as the key to security and prosperity.”