Solution on recognition of Patriarch Ireneios is near

WASHINGTON, December 6 -- Patriarch Ireneios of Jerusalem is expected to be officially recognized by the state of Israel within the next two weeks, said SAE President Andrew A. Athens today, after receiving information from highly placed sources in the Israeli government and from Jewish groups in the U.S.

"The long wait for the official recognition of Patriarch will be over before the holidays according to officials at the highest level of the foreign ministry and the office of the President in Israel," according to Mr. Athens who has visited Jerusalem repeatedly in his efforts to expedite the recognition.

"We have worked on this issue closely with the Coordinated Effort of Hellenes in Washington and with the American Jewish Committee who have been supportive in redressing the unjust delay of the recognition of the Patriarch."

Representatives of the Jewish community in Washington informed in writing Mr. Athens about the developments as events are shaping in anticipation of the traditional New Year's reception held by the President of Israel.