02/16/2026
On Thursday, February 5, it was a great pleasure to host journalist and author Sean Mathews at the Hellenic American Union Theater for the book launch of The New Byzantines: The Rise of Greece and Return of the Near East, published by Hurst and forthcoming in Greek by Metaichmio Publications.
This special event was co-organized by Hellenic American University and the Hellenic American Union, under the auspices of Hellenic American Union President Dr. Leonidas Tzonis.
The evening featured an engaging discussion with:
• Michael Vatikiotis, Senior Advisor at the Center for Humanitarian Dialogue
• Sean Mathews, Journalist and author
• Cameron Bell, Assistant Professor and Director of Civic Engagement, Hellenic American University
The discussion was moderated by Professor Emeritus of History Alexander Kitroeff (Haverford College).
The event brought together a distinguished and diverse audience, including representatives from foreign embassies and the Greek Ministry of Foreign Affairs, members of the Hellenic American Union Board, executives from the shipping and energy sectors, professors, journalists, authors, students, and members of the Greek community with family ties to the Near East. Attendees reflected a vibrant mix of nationalities, including Armenian, Turkish, Lebanese, and Syrian participants — highlighting the regional relevance and resonance of the book’s themes.
We thank all who joined us for an insightful evening of dialogue on Greece’s evolving role in the region and the broader geopolitical transformations shaping the Near East.
