US Commends Greece's Defense Spending and Regional Leadership

Athens received commendation from the United States for surpassing the agreed-upon 2% GDP spending on defense, allocating over 3.5%, a significant accomplishment recognized during the Fifth Strategic Dialogue held in Washington.

The joint statement, issued following the meeting co-chaired by Greek Foreign Minister George Gerapteritis and US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, highlighted Greece's commitment to defense modernization, with a substantial portion of funds dedicated to major equipment acquisition.

Bilateral defense cooperation, including US access to Greek military facilities like the Alexandroupoli port, was underscored as a growing aspect of the relationship. Both parties reaffirmed their dedication to fostering stability, peace, and prosperity in Europe and surrounding regions, addressing various regional concerns such as the Israel-Palestine conflict, attacks by Yemen's Houthi rebels in the Red Sea, and the situation in Ukraine.

The US lauded Greece's humanitarian assistance to Gaza, its support for Israel, participation in Operation Prosperity Guardian, and leadership role in the EU's naval operation, EUNAVFOR Aspides. Notably, the statement acknowledged the positive trajectory of relations between Greece and Turkey, both key NATO allies in the southeastern region.