Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis on Monday attended the presentation of Greece’s National Animal Protection Mechanism for natural disasters at the Affected Animals Reception Center in the Athens suburb of Galatsi, where he highlighted the vital role of volunteers in rescuing and caring for animals during emergencies.
Mitsotakis was welcomed by Interior Minister Theodoros Livanios and Deputy Interior Minister Vassilis Spanakis before touring the facility. Accompanied by Elena Dede, founder of the animal welfare organization Dogs’ Voice, he visited the center’s intake and reunification areas, veterinary clinic and operations center.
Officials briefed the prime minister on emergency response procedures and coordination efforts aimed at rescuing and caring for animals affected by natural disasters and other crises. Mitsotakis also met with volunteers and learned about the adoption process for rescued animals.
Addressing the event, Mitsotakis said the initiative demonstrated the value of cooperation between the state and civil society.
“Today’s event is the clearest proof that when the state listens to and works alongside civil society – those who are always on the ground and on the front lines, dedicated in this case to the protection of animals – something truly positive can emerge,” he said.
