The governor of Greece’s South Aegean region, George Hatzimarkos, has officially requested that the Hellenic Navy’s new FDI (Belharra) frigate, “Kimon”, be allowed to dock at the port of Rhodes. The request, addressed to Defense Minister Nikos Dendias and copied to the Chief of the Hellenic National Defense General Staff, General Dimitrios Choupis, is tied to the upcoming celebration of the 78th anniversary of the Dodecanese’s union with Greece.
In his letter, Hatzimarkos emphasizes that March 7th is a sacred day for Hellenism, marking the historical recognition of the region’s integration into the Greek state. Rhodes, the capital of the South Aegean region, traditionally hosts ceremonial events each year to honor the anniversary with dignity and national symbolism.
The request specifies that the frigate Kimon would be present on both March 6th, the eve of the anniversary, and March 7th, the day of the commemoration. According to Hatzimarkos, the presence of the navy’s flagship represents the continuity of Greek history, connecting the struggles of the past with the modern Armed Forces that safeguard sovereignty and security in the southeastern Aegean.
Hatzimarkos also highlights the morale and patriotic significance for local residents. Seeing the frigate up close will strengthen the national spirit and sense of security among the islanders, he notes. The South Aegean Regional Authority has expressed its readiness to assist in hosting the vessel and facilitating the crew during the visit.
