Athens, Greece — In a continued effort to strengthen international ties and promote cultural dialogue, THE SONAR INSTITUTE participated in a high-level meeting at the Institut Français d’Athènes on October 14, 2020. This significant engagement, which was part of the Institute’s broader mission to foster international cooperation, involved an in-depth discussion with esteemed diplomat Patrick Comoy, Director of the Institut in Athens focusing on the enhancement of Franco-Hellenic relations and the exploration of multicultural collaboration.
THE SONAR INSTITUTE delegation was led by Chief Executive Sophie O’Riordan, who recently assumed her role following the election of Agathe Flambard as President. O’Riordan was accompanied by senior representative Yann Blake. Both were warmly received by Mr. Comoy, with whom they engaged in a productive exchange on key issues related to cultural diplomacy and international cooperation. Reflecting on the meeting, O’Riordan expressed her appreciation for the opportunity to engage in meaningful dialogue, stating, “We are deeply satisfied with these initial contacts and truly valued the fruitful discussions around Franco-Hellenic and multicultural relations. This meeting represents a crucial step in our ongoing efforts to build bridges between diverse cultures and foster mutual understanding.”
Following the formal discussions, the delegation was given a comprehensive tour of the Institut Français d’Athènes by its staff, including Diamantis Diamantopoulos and Mme. Papadeli. The tour highlighted the institution’s significant role in promoting French culture, language, and arts in Greece. The Institut Français d’Athènes serves as a vital cultural bridge, connecting the rich heritages of France and Greece and supporting artistic and intellectual exchanges.
This meeting at the Institut Français d’Athènes is a continuation of THE SONAR INSTITUTE’s strategic diplomatic engagements. In September 2020, the Institute had been invited to the Greek Embassy in Paris, where they were received by Her Excellency Aglaia Balta. During this visit, they held important discussions with Mr. Psiachas, the Embassy Secretary, further emphasizing the Institute’s commitment to fostering dialogue and collaboration with key diplomatic and cultural institutions.
Yann Blake, reflecting on these interactions, stated, “We are particularly honored to have had the opportunity to discuss our projects and explore potential collaborations with the Institut Français and the French Embassy. The hospitality and openness we experienced have laid a solid foundation for future partnerships, and we are excited about the possibilities that lie ahead.”
The meeting also provided a platform to discuss upcoming initiatives and identify potential areas of collaboration between THE SONAR INSTITUTE and the Institut Français. “Our discussions not only affirmed the importance of cultural diplomacy but also opened new avenues for cooperation,” O’Riordan added. “We look forward to building on this foundation to advance our shared cultural and diplomatic goals.”
About the Institut Français d’Athènes:
The Institut Français d’Athènes is the cultural and cooperation arm of the French Embassy in Greece. It plays a crucial role in promoting French culture internationally, supporting the promotion of the French language, the circulation of art and ideas, and the mobility of artists. The Institut is dedicated to fostering cultural diversity and actively contributes to welcoming foreign cultures to France.
About THE SONAR INSTITUTE:
THE SONAR INSTITUTE is a prominent non-governmental organization dedicated to enhancing understanding and dialogue on international issues. Through events, interviews, and research, we strive to foster informed discussions and collaborative solutions to global challenges.
