Cultural Solidarity between Afghanistan and Greece Celebrated in London
ADFP News Desk
On May 31, 2025, a magnificent celebration of Afghan-Greek Solidarity was held in London, organised by the Afghan Diaspora Forum for Peace (ADFP) and the Hafiza Foundation. The event gathered over 150 guests from diverse nationalities and communities for an evening imbued with music, art, spirituality, and a profound sense of shared humanity.
The ceremony commenced with a heartfelt welcome from Mrs Hafiza Antonides, founder of ADFP and the Hafiza Foundation, who addressed the audience with dignity and hope:
“Ladies and gentlemen, esteemed guests, community leaders, and friends from near and far – your presence tonight is a profound honour for us. We are gathered not merely to savour melodies or indulge in exquisite flavours, but to celebrate the power of cultures to build bridges that transcend languages, borders, and human suffering.”
She went on to reflect upon the deep spiritual connection between the two ancient nations:
“Afghanistan and Greece may appear distant on a map, yet in spirit and soul, they are remarkably close. Both are lands of poetry, resilience, and artistic beauty. Afghanistan is a country of poetry, carpets, and courage, where people carry songs in their hearts and hospitality in their homes, even in exile. Greece is the birthplace of democracy, philosophy, and theatre, a land that deeply understands the value of freedom, art, and perseverance.”
Her words resonated with the audience, who responded with quiet admiration and respectful applause. She continued with evocative imagery:
“Tonight is where the oud meets the rubab, where Attan dances with Athens, and where tradition encounters renaissance. Yet we are not here merely to celebrate. We gather because many families, particularly Afghan women, children, and refugees, continue to fight daily for survival. The Hafiza Foundation was established with one mission: to restore hope, dignity, and opportunity to those who have lost everything – except themselves.”
Mrs Antonides spoke with passionate conviction about the foundation’s commitment not only to meeting the basic needs of Afghan families in Afghanistan and beyond, but also to preserving Afghan heritage through vocational and cultural programmes. These include training in traditional crafts, language, and music to safeguard identity while generating income. Supporting women and youth affected by war, displacement, or cultural isolation remains central to their mission.
She emphasised:
“Charity is not about giving what we can spare. Charity is about seeing the humanity in another’s eyes and creating a world where there is a place at the table for everyone – regardless of how long their journey has been or what they have lost.”
She then invited all guests – Afghans, Greeks, and friends of every nationality – to stand with the Hafiza Foundation by participating in its workshops, supporting its artists, volunteering time and expertise, and amplifying this message of human solidarity so that the foundation may continue to shine as a beacon of cultural resilience.
The artistic segment of the evening transformed the atmosphere with a mesmerising traditional Greek dance performance. A renowned dancer graced the stage, showcasing the intricate and soulful movements of Zeibekiko and Greek folkloric dance. The resonant sound of the bouzouki filled the hall, and guests – both Afghan and Greek – clapped and gathered around, creating a powerful moment of unity and joy. This performance was not merely entertainment; it was a profound expression of collective celebration, endurance, and joy.
Following the cultural performances, guests engaged in a networking and refreshment session, where conversations flowed with warmth and sincerity. They discussed future projects, potential collaborations, and strategies to support vulnerable families. Smiles illuminated the gathering, and the atmosphere pulsed with positive energy, demonstrating yet again that art and culture connect hearts more swiftly than words ever can.
The night concluded not with farewells, but with the forging of new friendships, the inception of fresh collaborations, and a rekindled hope for a more unified and compassionate future. In her closing remarks, Mrs Antonides reflected:
“Tonight we leave with a dream – the dream of a world where no one is left alone, and where cultures, like musical notes side by side, compose a gentle and beautiful symphony of shared life.”
Thus, the Afghan-Greek Solidarity event organised by ADFP and the Hafiza Foundation on May 31, 2025, proved to be far more than a single evening’s celebration. It was a renewed beginning for building enduring bridges between cultures and hearts – bridges built by those who place kindness, humanity, and compassion at the very centre of their daily lives.
