This Greek Defense Minister Nikos Dendias, during a visit to Chicago, participated in a wide-ranging discussion with Endy Zemenides, Executive Director of HALC, at the Chicago Council on Global Affairs. The discussion covered Greece's foreign and defense policy interactions on the international stage, focusing on NATO, the alliance with the US, and relations with the European Union. Dendias emphasized Greece's modernization efforts to address contemporary security challenges, highlighting the acquisition of F-35 fighter jets and French frigates.
He underscored Greece's role in regional and international stability, referencing initiatives like the East Med Gas Forum, the Three Seas Initiative, and strengthened relationships with countries such as Israel and Egypt. Dendias also addressed challenges posed by Turkey, citing the maritime boundary delimitation as the sole dispute Athens recognizes with Ankara, and criticizing Turkey's "Blue Homeland" doctrine.
Key discussion points included:
- NATO and EU: Dendias affirmed Greece's commitment to NATO and its strategic contribution. He also criticized the EU's conflicting budgetary rules that hinder defense spending despite acknowledging existing security threats.
- Greece-US Relations: Dendias highlighted the strong alliance and military cooperation between Greece and the US, exemplified by the updated Mutual Defense Cooperation Agreement and the strategic importance of the Alexandroupoli base. He expressed his expectation for a continued sincere relationship with the Trump administration, similar to past collaborations. The Alexandroupoli base was emphasized as crucial for US, NATO, and Western access to Ukraine and Central Europe, offering unique logistical advantages. He stressed that the strengthened bilateral and trilateral relationships (including Cyprus and Israel) benefit both countries, with Greece serving as a hub for US exports.
- Defense and Security: Dendias stressed Greece's adherence to international law and respect for borders. He highlighted Greece's leading role in two EU naval operations: IRINI in Libya and ASPIDES in the Red Sea. He discussed Greece's defense modernization programs, including the acquisition of F-35s and French frigates, as a response to the economic crisis and the need to reform the armed forces. He also mentioned the development of a comprehensive defense "dome" to protect against various threats, including drones.
- Energy: Dendias emphasized Greece's role as a critical energy hub through Alexandroupoli, facilitating the flow of US LNG to Europe. He mentioned the East-Med Gas Forum and the Abraham Accords as foundations for energy and defense cooperation, and expressed support for the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor.
- Greek-Turkish Relations: Dendias addressed challenges posed by Turkey, including maritime disputes and the "Blue Homeland" doctrine, which he labeled as neo-imperialist and a violation of international law. He expressed his belief that Turkey's confrontational stance is counterproductive and urged adherence to international law.
- Syria: Dendias discussed the hope for an inclusive government and a democratic future for Syria, emphasizing the importance of adherence to international law. He expressed openness to Turkey developing friendly relations with a future Syrian government, provided it respects international norms, particularly regarding maritime boundaries, and acknowledges the interests of Cyprus.
- Humanitarian Initiatives: Dendias highlighted Greece's support for humanitarian aid, particularly in Gaza, collaborating with Cyprus in facilitating the delivery of goods. He mentioned Greece's offer of naval vessels for aid transport and the country's commitment to regional stability and prosperity.