The heads of the Greek Orthodox and Jerusalem Orthodox Churches have called for stronger unity among Orthodox Churches worldwide, emphasizing the need for cooperation in addressing growing challenges facing Christians in the Middle East and beyond.

Archbishop Ieronymos II of Athens and All Greece welcomed Patriarch Theophilos III of Jerusalem to Athens during the Patriarch's official visit to Greece. According to the Church of Greece, discussions focused on the security situation in the Middle East, the protection of Christian communities and holy sites in the Holy Land, and efforts to strengthen global Orthodox unity.

Speaking during the meeting at the Archdiocese of Athens, Archbishop Ieronymos praised the Jerusalem Patriarchate's peacebuilding efforts amid ongoing regional conflicts and instability. He stressed that the Church has a vital role to play in promoting peace, safeguarding Christian populations, and preserving the religious character of sacred sites.

"We are called to preserve the unity of the Local Churches, promote dialogue, and jointly bear witness to the Orthodox faith in the face of the great challenges of our time," the Archbishop said.

Ieronymos also highlighted the importance of supporting the Greek diaspora, welcoming recent legislative initiatives by the Greek government aimed at assisting clergy serving overseas communities. He noted that priests abroad play a significant role not only in the spiritual life of expatriate Greeks but also in preserving language, culture, and historical identity.

Patriarch Theophilos expressed gratitude for the warm reception and described the Church of Greece as one of the principal pillars of global Orthodoxy. He praised Greece's centuries-long contribution to Orthodox Christianity through the formation of patriarchs, bishops, theologians, and spiritual leaders.

The Patriarch also thanked the Greek Church for its support of the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, Christian holy sites in the Holy Land, and educational programs for students.

During his visit, Patriarch Theophilos met with Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis. Their discussions covered cooperation between the Greek state and the Jerusalem Patriarchate, the preservation of the historical status quo at holy sites, and the protection of the Patriarchate's longstanding rights.

Particular attention was given to security concerns in the Middle East following renewed regional tensions. Mitsotakis reaffirmed Greece's commitment to supporting the Christian presence in the Holy Land and stressed the importance of protecting religious freedom and preserving centuries-old traditions.

The Greek prime minister stated that Greece would continue assisting Orthodox communities across the Middle East, many of which are facing the consequences of ongoing geopolitical instability.

For his part, Patriarch Theophilos noted that the preservation of the Christian presence in Jerusalem and throughout the Middle East remains a topic of international concern. He said the issue has been discussed with global leaders, including officials in the United States.

The visit comes at a time of continued uncertainty in the region and underscores the shared commitment of Orthodox Churches and the Greek government to protecting Christian holy sites, supporting believers, and preserving the historical heritage of the Holy Land.