Greek Independence Day -observed every year on March 25- was celebrated yesterday with customary parades and festivities across the country.

In his message on the anniversary, the President of the Hellenic Republic Karolos Papoulias called for the unity of Hellenism, expressing confidence that Greece will overcome the crisis and the country will emerge victorious from another difficult struggle of its modern history.

Papoulias also thanked the Greek diaspora for its support, noting that its members "relay Greek spirit and culture" and provide a "pillar of moral support" for their homeland. The Greek Diaspora participated in the celebrations with several events in cities around the US, Australia, Germany and elsewhere.

The highlight was the annual Greek parade which took place on New York’s Fifth Avenue. Addressing an annual White House reception honouring Greek Independence Day, the President of the United States of America Barack Obama proclaimed March 25 2012, as "Greek Independence Day: A National Day of Celebration of Greek and American Democracy" and reiterated US solidarity with the Greek people.