After claiming bronze at the 2026 European Championship in Belgrade earlier this year—ending a long wait for a European medal—Theodoros Vlachos’ side now has banished another painful record by finally winning gold after five defeats in major international finals.

Greece has established itself among the world’s elite over the past three decades but has repeatedly fallen just short on the biggest stage. Its first appearance in a major final came at the 1997 FINA Cup in Athens, where it lost 8-5 to the United States.

More than two decades later, Greece was beaten on penalties by Serbia in the 2018 Mediterranean Games final before suffering another defeat to Serbia in the gold medal match at the delayed Tokyo Olympic Games in 2021.

Further heartbreak followed in 2023, when Hungary edged Greece in a penalty shootout in the World Championship final in Fukuoka, while Spain denied the Greeks World Cup glory in last year’s final in Podgorica.

Greece’s Major Finals

Photos Copyright Nick Bourdaniotis / Greek City Times

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According to the 2025 Annual Report by the Greek Office of Economic and Commercial Affairs in Beijing, bilateral trade exceeded €7.18 billion in 2025 despite Greece continuing to run a substantial trade deficit with China.

Greek exports to China rose by 68.1% to €697.2 million, up from €414.6 million in 2024, while imports from China fell by 6.6% to €6.48 billion.

The improvement reduced Greece’s trade deficit by approximately €740 million, marking a significant turnaround after years of widening imbalances.

Petroleum and pharmaceuticals lead export growth

Refined petroleum products recorded the strongest growth, with exports soaring 1,972% to €279 million, accounting for around 40% of all Greek exports to China.

Pharmaceutical products ranked second, increasing 44% to €102.7 million, highlighting the growing competitiveness of Greece’s pharmaceutical industry in the Chinese market.

Other leading exports included:

• Marble: €77.5 million
• Precious metal ores: €74.6 million
• Copper products: €21.8 million

The report also identifies olive oil, fruit juices, dairy products and high-technology goods as sectors with strong long-term potential as China’s middle class continues to expand.

Chinese investment remains strong

China continues to view Greece as an attractive investment destination, particularly in infrastructure, energy, logistics, telecommunications and real estate.

The Golden Visa programme remains a major driver of Chinese investment.

Between the programme’s launch in 2013 and the end of 2024, Greece issued 15,115 residency permits to foreign investors, with 8,607 granted to Chinese nationals—representing 56.2% of all Golden Visa recipients.

Investments linked to the programme totalled €4.47 billion during 2023 and 2024 alone.

Tourism emerges as major growth opportunity

The report identifies tourism as one of the most promising sectors for bilateral cooperation in 2026.

Before the COVID-19 pandemic, approximately 164,000 Chinese visitors arrived in Greece during 2019.

After collapsing during the pandemic, arrivals recovered to 95,311 visitors in 2023, signalling the gradual return of the Chinese outbound travel market.

Chinese visitors continue to favour destinations including Athens, Santorini, Mykonos, Crete, Delphi, Olympia and Meteora.

Most travellers stay between five and eight nights, choose three- to five-star hotels, and spend up to €2,500 per trip.

According to the report, 80% of Chinese visitors purchase travel packages focused exclusively on Greece, reflecting the country’s growing appeal as a standalone destination rather than part of wider European tours.

New travel trends

The report also highlights changing travel preferences among Chinese tourists.

Demand is increasing for independent travel, authentic cultural experiences, gastronomy, wellness tourism and themed holidays.

Business travel, retirement travel, destination weddings and Chinese television productions filmed in Greece are also expected to contribute to future tourism growth.

Officials believe expanded direct flights between Athens and Beijing, Shanghai and Chengdu, combined with stronger promotion through Chinese social media platforms, will further boost visitor numbers.

The report also recommends simplifying visa procedures and expanding electronic payment options, including Alipay, WeChat Pay and UnionPay, to improve the travel experience for Chinese visitors.

With China home to the world’s largest middle class and millions of citizens seeking overseas travel and investment opportunities, the report concludes that 2026 presents significant opportunities for Greece to deepen its economic partnership with Beijing through trade, investment and tourism.

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Investigators identified the suspect as Abdul B., who allegedly drove a white van into crowds gathered in Berlin’s Tiergarten park at about 10:15 p.m. local time on Saturday before fleeing the scene. The vehicle crashed into a tree after striking multiple people.

Berlin police issued an urgent public appeal with the suspect’s photograph and description, warning that he may be armed and dangerous.

Police described him as approximately 1.90 metres tall, with a slim build and black hair. He was last believed to be wearing a black hooded sweatshirt and white trousers.

Authorities urged the public not to approach him.

“If you encounter the suspect, do not approach him under any circumstances,” police said. “He may be armed and dangerous. Contact the emergency number 110 immediately.”

According to German media, investigators searched the suspect’s apartment after the attack but did not locate him. Reports also indicate he had been released from juvenile detention in May and was already known to security authorities.

Police have not yet established a clear motive.

“There is currently no information regarding his specific motives, the exact sequence of events or his precise role in the attack,” a police spokesperson said.

Witnesses told German media that after abandoning the van, the suspect appeared to be carrying a sharp object, possibly a knife. Some bystanders reported seeing victims with apparent stab wounds, although authorities have not yet confirmed those reports as part of the investigation.

The attack occurred as hundreds of thousands of people attended one of Europe’s largest LGBTQ+ Pride celebrations. Organisers cancelled the event following the incident, while emergency crews treated victims at the scene. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz condemned the attack as “an attack on our society.”

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The study, led by Greek pulmonologist Dr Stavros Garantziotis, was published in Science Translational Medicine and reveals how the lung microbiome may contribute to the development of the disease while identifying the immune receptor TLR5 as a promising therapeutic target.

Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis causes progressive scarring of the lungs, leading to irreversible loss of lung function and, ultimately, respiratory failure. Current medications can only slow the disease’s progression.

Dr Garantziotis, a researcher at the US National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences (NIEHS), said he turned his attention to the disease because of its poor prognosis.

“When, as a doctor, you realise there is very little you can do for your patients, you want to understand the mechanisms behind the disease,” he said.

“Medicine is no longer purely empirical. Every patient is different. If we understand what causes the disease in each individual, we can develop treatments that target the root of the problem with much greater precision.”

Although the exact cause of IPF remains unknown, smoking and environmental pollution are recognised risk factors.

The researchers identified another critical factor: the lung microbiome.

For many years, scientists believed healthy lungs were sterile. Modern research has overturned that assumption, showing the lungs constantly interact with the outside environment and host diverse microbial communities.

The team found that environmental damage, including cigarette smoke, may disrupt the balance of bacteria in the lungs, triggering chronic inflammation that eventually leads to the scarring characteristic of pulmonary fibrosis.

TLR5 plays a protective role

The research focused on TLR5, an immune receptor responsible for recognising certain bacteria and activating protective immune responses.

Researchers analysed genetic data from more than 1,100 patients with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis and approximately 2,500 healthy individuals.

They found a clear association between IPF and reduced TLR5 function.

The team then confirmed the finding in laboratory mice. Animals lacking a functional TLR5 receptor proved significantly more susceptible to developing pulmonary fibrosis.

Further experiments demonstrated that activating TLR5 using a specific bacterial protein stimulated the receptor’s protective function, effectively shielding animal models from developing lung fibrosis.

Potential benefits extend to COPD

A second study by the same research group, currently awaiting publication, suggests TLR5 may also protect against chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

The researchers examined COPD patients, human cells and animal models, finding that higher TLR5 activity in the lungs corresponded with lower levels of inflammatory markers in patients’ blood.

They also discovered that cigarette smoke suppresses TLR5 expression in airway cells.

Dr Garantziotis said the findings suggest smoking may damage the lungs partly by reducing TLR5 activity, leading to poorer lung health and increased bacterial growth.

“The activation of TLR5 may improve lung function,” he said, adding that restoring the receptor’s activity could become a new therapeutic strategy for chronic lung diseases.

Next steps toward treatment

The research team will now investigate which antibiotics may best restore healthy lung bacteria and whether medicines that directly activate TLR5 can prevent or treat pulmonary fibrosis.

Dr Garantziotis was born and raised in Athens before studying medicine at Germany’s Albert Ludwig University of Freiburg. He completed specialist training in Internal Medicine at Albert Einstein College of Medicine in New York and Pulmonary Medicine at Duke University in North Carolina.

He has served for approximately 15 years as Director of the Clinical Research Unit at the US National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences.

The full study, “TLR5 protects against pulmonary fibrosis by preserving the lung microbiome,” appears in Science Translational Medicine.

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The 24-year-old forward arrives in Greece after building an impressive résumé across Europe and South America. Kalyan has previously played for leading clubs in Cyprus and Peru, gaining valuable experience in domestic leagues and continental competition.

Kalyan made history as the first Indian women’s footballer to compete in the UEFA Women’s Champions League, a landmark achievement that established her as one of India’s most accomplished football exports. Her breakthrough has inspired a new generation of female footballers and highlighted the growing presence of Indian talent on the international stage.

Widely regarded as one of India’s brightest attacking players, Kalyan is expected to strengthen AEK Athens’ frontline as the club prepares for the upcoming Greek Women’s A Division season. Her pace, technical ability and goalscoring instincts are expected to add another dimension to the squad.

The move also represents another important step in Kalyan’s career as she continues to compete at the highest levels of women’s football, while further strengthening the connection between Indian football and the European game.

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In his commemorative message, Tasoulas described the period since the fall of the military dictatorship in 1974 as the most stable and enduring era of parliamentary democracy in modern Greek history. He said the achievements of the past five decades should never be taken for granted, stressing that democracy requires constant protection and active participation.

The President paid tribute to the late Konstantinos Karamanlis, who led Greece’s transition back to democracy following the collapse of the junta, describing his leadership as instrumental in restoring constitutional order and placing Greece firmly on its European path.

Tasoulas said democracy offers not only freedoms but also responsibilities, calling on political leaders and citizens alike to safeguard democratic institutions through respect, dialogue and national cohesion.

“Democracy does not only guarantee rights,” he said. “It also places obligations on all of us.”

Addressing today’s geopolitical environment, the President noted that Greece faces a world marked by conflict, instability and uncertainty. He said the country’s democratic institutions have matured over the past 52 years and are equipped to confront modern challenges, provided they continue to be supported by responsible governance and public trust.

A significant part of his message focused on Cyprus, linking the restoration of democracy in Greece with the events of July 1974, when Turkey invaded Cyprus following the coup backed by the military junta.

Tasoulas described Cyprus as a continuing national issue and reiterated Greece’s longstanding support for a comprehensive, viable and functional settlement based on international law and United Nations resolutions.

He also opened his address by recalling the words of Nobel Prize-winning Greek poet George Seferis, whose public opposition to the dictatorship became one of the defining moral voices of the era. The President said Seferis’ warning against oppression remains a powerful reminder of the importance of protecting democratic freedoms.

Earlier in the day, Tasoulas visited the former EAT-ESA military police detention centre at Freedom Park in Athens, where he laid a wreath at the bust of Spyros Moustaklis, one of the most recognised figures of resistance against the military dictatorship. During the visit, he met representatives of the Association of Imprisoned and Exiled Resistance Fighters of 1967–1974 and members of Moustaklis’ family.

The ceremony honoured those who were imprisoned, tortured and persecuted during the dictatorship, reinforcing the importance of remembering the sacrifices that helped restore democracy in Greece.

Concluding his message, Tasoulas said Greece’s democratic achievements must continue to be strengthened through responsible political leadership, strong institutions and an engaged society, ensuring that the legacy of the post-1974 era endures for future generations.

Source: Pagenews.gr

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Agia Paraskevi was born in Rome to Christian parents and was instructed in the Faith of Christ from her youth. With great fervour, Agia Paraskevi endeavoured to fulfil all the commandments of God. Believing firmly and living according to her faith, Paraskevi directed others on the path of salvation and into a pious life.

When her parents died, Paraskevi distributed all of her property to the poor and was tonsured a nun. As a nun, she preached the Christian Faith with even greater zeal, not hiding from anyone, even though, at that time, the Roman authorities were conducting bloody persecution against the Christian Faith. Then the pernicious Jews denounced Agia Paraskevi for preaching a forbidden faith, and she was brought to trial before Emperor Antoninus.

All the flatteries of the emperor did not shake the faith of this handmaiden of God. They then subjected her to torture by fire and placed a red-hot helmet on her head. The Lord miraculously saved her, and Paraskevi was freed and left Rome. She continued travelling from city to city to convert pagans to the true Faith.

She was brought before princes and judges in two more cities and was tortured for her Lord, at which time she worked great miracles and quickly recovered from her pains and wounds by the power of God. The pagans, as always, ascribed her miracles to magic and her swift recoveries to the mercy of their gods.

Agia Paraskevi once told the prince who was torturing her: “O Prince, it is not your gods who have healed me, but my Christ, the true God.” Paraskeviendured exceedingly painful torments and was beheaded in the year 140 by a certain Prince Tarasius, who beheaded her with the sword. Her relics were later translated to Constantinople. She suffered honourably for Christ in the second century.

The faithful pray to her to heal eye ailments, and many with eye conditions consider Agia Paraskevi their patron saint.

The feast and commemoration of Agia Paraskevi are celebrated with the Divine Liturgy of Saint John Chrysostom, which is conducted on the morning of the feast and preceded by a Matins (Orthros) service. A Great Vespers is conducted the evening before the day of the Feast.

Today is the name day of Paraskevi and Paraskevas.

Xronia Polla!

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Aaron Zerefos Vast Motorsport pairing confirmed

Zerefos continues his 2026 endurance racing campaign with the new deal. He lines up alongside Sharma in the same BMW that finished third in Class X and ninth outright at April’s Bathurst 6 Hour. Supercars Championship star Jack Le Brocq drove that car at Mount Panorama.

Zerefos said he feels excited to join the Vast Motorsport squad. The team also runs Sharma in the Porsche Equity-One Carrera Cup Australia Championship. “I’ve known a couple of the team members, Barrell and Harry, for a long time so I’m excited to work with them,” Zerefos said.

Additionally, this marks his first race in an outright Class X production car. “It will be my first race in an outright Class X production car, so I can’t wait to experience the BMW M3’s performance and contend for a great outright finish as well as a strong result within our class,” he added.

Vast Motorsport welcomed the signing. The team noted that Zerefos impressed at Bathurst this year. “Zerefos really impressed us this year at Bathurst, and it’s great to have him in the team – he’s a safe pair of hands with a big following in Australia and the US.”

Who is Aaron Zerefos

Aaron Zerefos is a Greek Australian entrepreneur and international race car driver. He was born on 26 December 1983 in the rural Sydney suburb of Kenthurst.

Zerefos attended The King’s School. He later worked in Sydney real estate and became a licensed agent and property investor. He now runs Aaron Zerefos Enterprises. The company distributes brands that include Fiji Water, C Coconut Water, Milk Lab, Add Water and Drinkscene.

In addition, Greek media regularly describe him as a prominent figure in the Greek Australian community. He balances beverage distribution with a long motorsport career that features multiple Bathurst starts and podium finishes in Porsche machinery.

Moreover, Zerefos has raced for leading Porsche teams in Australia and overseas. He has competed at events including the Bathurst 12 Hour, Bathurst 6 Hour, Monaco and Daytona.

Flipside energy drink backs the entry

Flipside energy drink brand supports the team’s Sandown entry. High-profile entrepreneur Adrian Portelli owns the brand. Zerefos’ Drinkscene beverage business recently started distributing Flipside products.

Moreover, the market response has proved encouraging. “My Drinkscene beverage business recently started distributing Flipside products, and we’ve had an encouraging response in the market, so it will be good to represent them on the track, along with our other brands such as Fiji Water, C Coconut Water, Milk Lab and Add Water,” Zerefos said.

In addition, the partnership builds on existing commercial ties. Vast Motorsport already fields Sharma under Flipside branding in Carrera Cup. Therefore, the energy drink presence extends naturally into the production car program.

Practice and race schedule at Sandown

Zerefos hits the track for practice on Friday, 7 August. The 3-hour endurance race takes place on Saturday, 8 August. Organizers will live stream the event on YouTube.

Meanwhile, Sandown Raceway sits in Melbourne’s Springvale suburb and ranks among Australia’s historic circuits. The ARDC runs the Australian Production Car Endurance Series, with this round forming the second event of the 2026 calendar.

Furthermore, the series visits Sydney Motorsport Park, Sandown, Queensland Raceway and concludes at the Bathurst 6 Hour. Drivers therefore treat every round as vital preparation for the Mount Panorama finale.

As a result, Zerefos and Sharma aim for both class success and a strong outright result. The BMW M3 already proved competitive at Bathurst. Consequently, the pair enters Sandown with proven pace in Class X.

Greek City Times previously covered Zerefos’ return to the Bathurst 12 Hour. [Related: Greek Australian racer Aaron Zerefos confirmed for Bathurst start]

Readers can follow further updates on the ARDC website and Vast Motorsport channels. Official results from the 2026 Bathurst 6 Hour remain available on the event site.

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The nonprofit Vikingaleden association, which operates a Viking centre and museum in Värmland, western Sweden, says the replica warship Glad av Gillberga suffered damage during its six months with the production.

The association claims the vessel sustained damage to parts of its wooden structure, including the stern and mast, after being used as one of the escort ships in the film’s Viking-inspired fleet.

The group says Universal Pictures agreed to cover repair costs but has not paid an invoice worth around $6,000 for materials used to restore the ship.

The owners say they did not charge the studio for volunteer labour.

Peter Olausson, chair of the Vikingaleden association, said the organisation felt proud that the historic replica appeared in Nolan’s epic, but frustration followed when the alleged payment failed to arrive.

“We are only charging for the material cost, not the labour,” Olausson said. “Of course Universal can afford this $6,000. We feel forgotten.”

The association says the ship is now sailing again, but Olausson believes Universal failed to honour its agreement.

“The agreement was that we would fix it and get financially reimbursed,” he said.

For Universal, the outstanding amount represents a relatively small expense compared with the reported scale of The Odyssey, which had a production budget of around $250m and generated a reported $264m during its opening weekend.

The Glad av Gillberga replica is based on a Viking-era shipwreck discovered in Denmark’s Roskilde Fjord dating back to around 1040. Over almost three decades, the vessel has sailed across the North Sea, the Baltic Sea and even travelled to Canada.

During production, the ship formed part of the fleet used to depict ancient vessels in Nolan’s adaptation of Homer’s epic poem about Odysseus’ decade-long journey home after the Trojan War.

The main vessel representing Odysseus’ ship was the 35-metre Norwegian replica Draken Harald Hårfagre.

Swedish captain Björn Ahlander, who worked on the production, said filming aboard the ships for six months around Greek and Italian islands presented challenges for the 30-person crew.

“We rebuilt the ship into an ancient Greek ship,” Ahlander told Swedish broadcaster SVT. “We removed the tents and all the modern things and had an open deck that we lived on during this time. It was quite tough.”

Universal Pictures rejected the claim, saying the studio had paid all invoices connected to the Glad av Gillberga.

A Universal spokesperson said: “Our records show that all invoices relating to the Glad av Gillberga were paid in full, including repairs. The studio and the production have contacted the association to clear up any misunderstanding.”

The dispute remains unresolved publicly, with the Swedish nonprofit maintaining that it is still waiting for reimbursement while The Odyssey continues its worldwide theatrical run.

The post Swedes Accuse Odyssey Movie Producers Of Damaging Viking Ship appeared first on Greek City Times.

The Greek duo delivered a superb performance in the final, recording a winning time of 6:29.26 to claim the gold medal and secure another major international success for Greek rowing.

The achievement was celebrated by Thessaloniki Mayor Stelios Angeloudis, who congratulated the two athletes in a social media post, praising their outstanding effort and the dedication of everyone supporting their journey.

“Our two rowers, with a great performance in the men’s pair and a time of 6:29.26, climbed to the highest step of the podium, giving Greece another major international distinction. You fill us with joy and pride! Warm congratulations to our two champions, the Thessaloniki Nautical Club, their coaches and everyone who stands beside them on this demanding journey.”

Greece Secures Gold Ahead of Australia and Romania

Bourkas and Chatziaugoustidis finished ahead of Australia, which claimed the silver medal with a time of 6:32.91, while Romania secured bronze after crossing the finish line in 6:33.99.

The victory adds another important chapter to Greece’s strong tradition in rowing and highlights the continued development of young Greek athletes competing at the highest international level.

The post Greek Rowers Crowned World Champions After Gold Win appeared first on Greek City Times.

Top Ongoing Bouzoukia Residencies in Athens

Petros Iakovidis & Ria Ellinidou at Fantasia Live
Leof. Poseidonos 5 | From 23:00 every Friday & Saturday
Petros Iakovidis headlines one of the strongest Athens pistes line-ups of the season, joined by Ria Ellinidou, special guest FY and Evangelia. Expect chart-topping laiko hits including tracks from M’ Akous and “Teleia.” Bottle service from €170.
Reservations: +30 210 894 0203

Lena Zevgara at Vog Club Athens
Leof. Poseidonos 35, Alimos | From 23:00 every Friday & Saturday
Powerhouse singer Lena Zevgara continues her successful summer residency at Vog Club Athens with Giorgos Livanis and Lefteris Krikis. The programme features her biggest hits plus new material such as “Mavra Fengaria.” Student packages start at €160 for four people.
Reservations: +30 210 984 3250

Katerina Lioliou at Romeo Club
Ellinikou 1 & Zita | From 23:30 every Friday & Saturday
Explosive performer Katerina Lioliou lights up Romeo Club with Nikiforos Vithoulkas, delivering nights of pure rhythm and energy ahead of her second album. Bottle packages range from €180–€270 for four; bar entry €15.
Reservations: +30 210 894 5345

Nikos Vertis at ELAN Symphony of Senses
Ethnarchou Makariou 1, Peace & Friendship Stadium (SEF), Piraeus | From 23:00 every Saturday & Sunday
Greek superstar Nikos Vertis headlines a spectacular open-air seaside residency at ELAN (formerly Sabbia). With his timeless hits, powerful live band and emotional stage presence, he delivers unforgettable summer nights by the sea. Supporting artists include Malou, Faii Theocharis and Ioanna Stringa. Bottle service from €190.
Reservations: 210 483 6335 / 697 400 5787

Upcoming Special Concerts in Athens

• 15 September 2026 – Ioulia Kallimani live at Katrakeio Theater, Nikaia
• 20 September 2026 – Giorgos Mazonakis 33-year career celebration at Technopolis Athens
• 2 October 2026 – Giorgos Sabanis live at Katrakeio Theater, Nikaia

Whether you’re searching for classic Athens bouzoukia, the best Paraliaki nightlife, or major Greek live concerts, these venues offer the authentic high-energy experience that defines summer nights in the Greek capital.

The post Athens Nightlife 2026: Best Bouzoukia & Pistes Guide – Current Live Residencies appeared first on Greek City Times.

According to Greek military sources, the unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) was shot down at 11:10 a.m. (Greece time)near Yanbu, in accordance with the unit’s established rules of engagement. Military officials said the drone originated from Yemen.

The interception followed an earlier operation the same morning, when the Greek Patriot battery destroyed two ballistic missiles, also launched from Yemen, at approximately 7:15 a.m. (Greece time).

Oil Refinery Was the Reported Target

According to military sources, the aerial attack was aimed at a major oil refinery installation in the Yanbu region, where the Greek air defence battery is deployed.

The successful interceptions prevented the incoming threats from reaching their reported target.

Greek Mission Continues

The Hellenic Force Saudi Arabia continues to carry out its mission as part of the international Integrated Air Missile Defense Concept, which supports the air defence of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

The Greek Patriot battery has been stationed in Saudi Arabia as part of Greece’s contribution to regional air and missile defence cooperation, protecting critical infrastructure against missile and drone attacks.

The post Greek Air Defence Unit in Saudi Arabia Downs Yemeni Drone appeared first on Greek City Times.

The young Greek side, coached by Argyris Theodoropoulos, took control from the opening whistle and never allowed Mexico back into the contest, showcasing its strength at both ends of the pool.

Greece raced to an 8-0 lead in the opening quarter before extending its advantage with another dominant second period, taking a commanding 16-1 lead into halftime.

The second half followed a similar pattern, with Greece maintaining complete control to seal an emphatic 25-3 victory and an ideal start to its World Championship campaign.

Greece Dominates From Start to Finish

The Greek defence stifled Mexico throughout the match, while the attack spread the scoring across multiple players.

Leading the way was Lampropoulou, who scored five goals, while Manousaki added four and Plemmenoucontributed three.

Also on the scoresheet were:

• Drosopoulou-Spathi (2)
• Tsigka (2)
• Moustaka (2)
• Bitsakou (2)
• Karagianni (2)
• Lambatou (1)
• Andreadi (1)
• Nikolopoulou (1)

Greece will face tournament hosts Croatia in its second Group Stage match on Saturday, 26 July, with the contest scheduled to begin at 8:00 pm local time.

Quarter Scores

• 1st Quarter: Greece 8-0 Mexico
• 2nd Quarter: Greece 8-1 Mexico
• 3rd Quarter: Greece 4-1 Mexico
• 4th Quarter: Greece 5-1 Mexico

The convincing victory gives Greece an early boost as it looks to progress deep into the U16 Women’s Water Polo World Championships.

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The decision will be made on Sunday during the 48th Session of the UNESCO World Heritage Committee in Busan, South Korea. If approved, Mount Olympus would join UNESCO’s prestigious World Heritage List in recognition of its exceptional environmental, historical and cultural significance.

The Greek delegation, comprising experts from the Ministry of Culture and the Ministry of Environment and Energy’s Natural Environment and Climate Change Agency, has spent recent days lobbying member states ahead of the vote. The delegation is led by Greece’s Permanent Representative to UNESCO, George Koumoutsakos.

The campaign to secure UNESCO recognition has been underway for weeks, with Koumoutsakos holding discussions with numerous national delegations to build support for Greece’s nomination.

The proposal had initially faced reservations from UNESCO’s technical advisory bodies, which believed additional work was needed before the nomination was ready for inscription. However, recent reports from Busan suggest momentum has shifted in Greece’s favour, with growing optimism that the committee will deliver a positive outcome.

If successful, Mount Olympus would be recognised not only for its unique biodiversity and ecological importance but also for its unparalleled place in world history and mythology as the legendary home of the ancient Greek gods.

Koumoutsakos said the Greek delegation was doing everything possible to achieve a successful outcome.

“Our team is doing everything possible to fulfil the expectations of many people in Greece, while firmly believing that Mount Olympus and the thousands of years of history surrounding it belong not only to Greece and Hellenism, but to universal civilisation.”

A successful inscription would represent a major international recognition of one of Greece’s most iconic landmarks and further strengthen efforts to protect its natural environment and cultural heritage for future generations.

The post Today UNESCO Decides on Mount Olympus World Heritage Status appeared first on Greek City Times.

Tzengko, representing AS Kentavros, secured her seventh Greek national title with a best throw of 57.75 metres, finishing comfortably ahead of the field. The mark was just shy of her season’s best of 58.37m, as the 2022 European champion was never seriously challenged.

Anastasia Dragomirova finished second after producing a personal best throw of 50.79m, while Margarita Tsoukala claimed the bronze medal with 49.75m.

In the men’s triple jump, Pantazis (AO Megaron) captured his second Greek national championship, recording a winning leap of 16.39m.

Veteran Dimitris Tsiamis took silver with 15.97m, narrowly edging Christos Koutsogakis, who finished third on 15.95m. The result left former national champion Nikolas Andrikopoulos just outside the medals.

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