Greece-US relations at ‘historic high’
As the Greece-US Strategic Dialogue began, Gerapetritis and Rubio said bilateral relations were at their highest level historically, with particular emphasis on defence, energy, the economy and stability across the wider region.
Gerapetritis said the bilateral partnership is grounded in shared values, international law and a common commitment to peace and security amid international challenges including the wars in Ukraine and the Middle East.
He described Greece as an anchor of stability and a bridge for dialogue in the Eastern Mediterranean, adding that defence cooperation between Athens and Washington is at its peak, with Alexandroupolis a notable example.
The Greek Foreign Minister also highlighted the country’s growing role as an energy hub for Southern and Southeastern Europe through the Vertical Corridor and infrastructure at Alexandroupolis.
He pointed to the presence of major US energy companies including Chevron and ExxonMobil, as well as the contribution of Greek shipping to maintaining global energy flows.
Gerapetritis also referred to the transformation of the Greek economy and opportunities for further American investment in data centres and digital infrastructure, saying the signing of three new agreements demonstrates the progress achieved in bilateral relations.
He said Greece’s F-16 Viper upgrades and acquisition of F-35s strengthen not only the capability and resilience of Greek defence but also the enduring defence partnership between the two countries.
Rubio: Greece an ‘indispensable ally’
Rubio described Greece as an “indispensable NATO ally” and a pillar of stability supporting the US presence in the region.
He also confirmed Greece’s role as a secure energy hub capable of facilitating increased exports of US LNG to Europe through the Vertical Corridor.
Rubio announced that the Greek Armed Forces will join a cooperation programme with the Florida National Guard.
He also highlighted the importance of the US-Greece Economic Declaration in developing secure supply chains, with particular emphasis on critical minerals.
Concluding his remarks, Rubio referred to what he described as the enduring debt owed to ancient Greece for its contribution to the development of Western civilisation, saying the two countries’ shared history provides a foundation for future initiatives.
Greece-US Strategic Dialogue
Rubio is subsequently scheduled to visit the US Embassy in Athens for the inauguration of renovation works at the building.
At noon, the Greece-US Strategic Dialogue is scheduled to take place at a central Athens hotel, attended by both foreign ministers.
Discussions will cover a broad range of issues, including defence, security, energy, shipping and efforts to attract further US investment.
Pnyx speech and Mitsotakis meeting
Rubio’s programme will conclude in the evening with two stops carrying particular symbolic and political significance.
At 6.30pm, he is scheduled to deliver a speech at the Pnyx.
At 7pm, the US Secretary of State is due at Maximos Mansion for talks with Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis.
A dinner in Rubio’s honour will follow the talks.
Source: ANA-MPA / CNN Greece / iefimerida
