CHANIA — This year's Dormition holiday may require people's social distancing, but they are nevertheless "more united than ever," Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis said on Saturday from Crete, where he is observing the major Greek holiday.

Mitsotakis reminded the public of following protective measures including wearing face masks, avoiding crowds and following doctors' directions.

In his holiday message, he expressed his appreciation to the armed forces which never rest from defending Greece and to security forces, including Civil Protection, Fire Brigade and Greek police.

He also warned that "the coming Fall will be demanding, but it is up to us to transform it into an opportunity for prosperity and a start of a new era for the entire country."

On Crete, the prime minister attended services at the Agia Triada Dzagarolon monastery in Akrotiri, off Chania on NW Crete with his family, and he is scheduled to visit the 115 Combat Wing of the Hellenic Air Force at the base of Souda.