Trump says Greek-US ties stronger than ever, signals intention to visit Greece

US President Donald Trump emphasized that Greek-American ties are stronger than ever during a White House ceremony for the presentation of credentials by Greece’s new ambassador to Washington, Antonis Alexandridis, according to reports. Trump described Greece as a valuable partner and ally, highlighting the shared democratic and spiritual heritage that binds the two nations.

In formal remarks during the meeting, Trump stated that the friendship between Greece and the United States is strong, historic, and rooted in common values. The President noted that bilateral relations have reached their highest level in recent years and expressed his intention to further strengthen cooperation across multiple strategic sectors.

Expanding US-Greece Relations in Key Strategic Sectors

Trump outlined several priority areas for deepening Greek-American ties, including shipping, trade, energy, and investment. During the ceremony, the President asked Ambassador Alexandridis to convey warm greetings to Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis and expressed his admiration for Greece, as well as his desire to visit the country in the future.

Additionally, Trump praised Greece’s commitment to meeting NATO’s defense-spending target, which he stated is now set at 5% of gross domestic product. He described Athens as demonstrating real leadership within the alliance and emphasized that peace is secured through strength, according to the remarks.

Energy Security and Infrastructure Projects

On the energy front, Trump highlighted the importance of US liquefied natural gas exports to the region. He specifically mentioned the Vertical Corridor, stating that related infrastructure projects will significantly enhance energy security across the broader area.

The President also expressed appreciation for Greece’s recent decision to abstain during the International Maritime Organization’s adoption of a net-zero emissions framework. Trump characterized Greece’s stance as courageous, arguing that the regulation would have placed excessive burdens on consumers, businesses, and global trade.

Defense Cooperation and Shipbuilding Opportunities

Trump concluded his remarks by pointing to promising prospects for deeper cooperation in the defense sector, particularly in shipbuilding. He noted ongoing discussions about building US frigates in Greece, which would represent a significant expansion of bilateral defense ties between the two NATO allies.

Meanwhile, the emphasis on shipbuilding cooperation aligns with broader efforts to strengthen Greece’s role as a strategic partner in the Eastern Mediterranean. The potential for constructing American naval vessels in Greek shipyards could create economic opportunities while reinforcing security partnerships in the region.

Trade and Investment Expansion

Beyond defense and energy, Trump emphasized opportunities to expand bilateral ties in trade and investment. These sectors represent key pillars of the economic relationship between the United States and Greece, with potential for significant growth in commercial cooperation.

However, specific details about concrete agreements or timelines for new initiatives were not disclosed during the credentials ceremony. The discussion focused primarily on establishing broad areas of cooperation rather than announcing particular projects or commitments.

The formal presentation of credentials marks the beginning of Ambassador Alexandridis’s tenure in Washington and signals continued high-level engagement between the two countries. Further details on specific cooperation initiatives are expected to emerge through ongoing diplomatic channels and potential future meetings between US and Greek officials.