PARIS (ANA-MPA/M. Spinthourakis) - A statue of Maria Callas, created by sculptor Nikos Floros, has been adorning the main building of UNESCO in Paris since Thursday.

During its unveiling, which took place at the initiative of the Greek Delegation to UNESCO and in collaboration with the Italian Delegation, the Greek Permanent Representative, George Koumoutsakos emphasised that Maria Callas was a universal Greek woman, a "Diva", as everyone knew her, who with her magical voice took opera out of the halls of the great theatres, expanding the familiar audience. "With her Mediterranean temperament and constant search for perfection, Callas will forever be a goodwill ambassador for UNESCO," concluded Koumoutsakos.

On his part, sculptor Nikos Floros explained that he wanted his sculpture to be made of bronze because bronze is "a strong and eternal material, like the talent and legacy of Callas." He expressed his satisfaction with the fact that, after Venice and Rome, his sculpture is being exhibited at UNESCO, an organisation "that protects the culture and memory of the world."

(Photo: Greek Delegation to UNESCO)