On April 4th Romfea.gr reported that the Greek government has rejected the standard pilgrimage application to visit Mount Athos during Holy Week. He had planned to visit Vatopaidi Monastery and meet with Abbot Ephraim who was recently released from prison, and attend the Passion services of Holy Week for two days. Greek officials gave as a pretext that, during Holy Week, all officials will be on Paschal holiday. The Kremlin was dissatisfied with this answer, but Greek officials have stated that they would more than welcome his visit following the holidays and be honored to be the first nation who welcomes the new President as a guest in their country.
