Athens responds to Russian criticism of Ephraim jailing

28. December 2011.

Source: Emg.rs, Athensnews.gr

Responding to a statement from the Russian foreign ministry over the ruling of Athens appeals court to remand Abbot Ephraim in custody, foreign ministry spokesman Gregory Delavekouras said: "The rule of law holds sway in Greece," adding that Greece "does not accept lessons on such matters".

The foreign ministry on Wednesday rejected criticisms by its Russian counterpart of the decision to place the abbot of Vatopedi monastery in pretrial detention

Responding to a statement from the Russian foreign ministry over the ruling of Athens appeals court to remand Abbot Ephraim in custody, foreign ministry spokesman Gregory Delavekouras said: "The rule of law holds sway in Greece," adding that Greece "does not accept lessons on such matters".

Delavekouras said: "Greece and Russia are linked by a deep relationship of friendship and understanding, one that is based on the common spiritual and cultural values of both countries. The two peoples, who participate in the common tradition of [Christian] Orthodoxy, which was passed on by Byzantium to Russia, have developed strong bonds between them."

"Greece is a state ruled by law, with a lengthy democratic tradition and respect for human rights, where there is an absolute respect for the independence of the judicial system and a clear distinction between powers,” he added. “Greece does not accept reproaches over these issues."