US Secretary of State Marco Rubio met with Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis in Athens on October 7, with both si...

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio met with Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis in Athens on October 7, with both sides declaring Greek-American relations are at their highest level ever. Rubio called Greece a strong partner and said the two countries consistently agree not just on the problems they face but on the right solutions too. Mitsotakis framed Greece as more than a security ally, describing the country as a bridge connecting Europe and the West to the Middle East, the Arab world, and the Gulf states. He told Rubio directly: "I agree with you that we are an indispensable partner for the United States." The talks covered a wide range of areas including defense, energy security, trade, technology, shipping, and education. Mitsotakis pointed to Greece's investment in LNG infrastructure as a key reason the country can now serve as an entry point for American liquefied natural gas into Europe, making Greece an energy security provider for its northern neighbors. Greece's participation in the EU's EUNAVFOR ASPIDES operation in the Red Sea also came up, with Mitsotakis stressing that Greece's commitment to freedom of navigation is not just rhetoric but demonstrated through action. Both leaders said safeguarding free navigation is critical to the global economy. Regional flashpoints including Ukraine, Iran, the Middle East, and the broader Eastern Mediterranean were all discussed. Rubio said he believes the two countries can do more together in the economy, energy, and trade, in ways that benefit both the American and Greek people. The Greek delegation included Foreign Minister George Gerapetritis, Deputy Foreign Minister Alexandra Papadopoulou, and Greece's Ambassador to Washington Antonis Alexandridis, among others. #Greece #GreekUS #EasternMediterranean