“On February 20-22, the European Ombudsman Μs. Emily O’ Reilly visited Athens, following an invitation by the Greek Ombudsman Mr. A. Pottakis, in the context of the two authorities’ cooperation on issues regarding the relations of the Greek citizens with the European Institutions.  

During her stay, Ms. O’ Reilly accompanied by Mr. Pottakis had meetings with the President of the Hellenic Republic Mr. Prokopios Pavlopoulos, the Speaker of the Hellenic Parliament Mr. Nikos Voutsis, as well as with the Alternate Minister for Foreign Affairs Mr. G. Katrougalos. Moreover, Ms. O’ Reilly accompanied by the Deputy Minister for Immigration Policy Mr. John Balafas and the Vice Mayor for the Immigrants and Refugees Mr. L. Papayiannakis, visited a refugee and migrant accommodation facility in Elaionas.

On February 21, Ms. O’ Reilly attended an event in the European Parliament’s office in Athens where she exchanged views with representatives of various bodies and of the civil society and held a press conference.

The European Ombudsman presented her priorities in ensuring transparency in decision - making at the European Union level and in the application of a common “code of ethics” for former European Commissioners and high European Union officials.

Finally, Ms. O’ Reilly visited the premises of the Greek Ombudsman, where she had the opportunity to exchange opinions with the staff of the Authority on issues concerning the role of the European Ombudsman and the policy of the European Union, in general”.