The Minister of National Defence Mr. Nikolaos Panagiotopoulos met today, Friday 10 February 2023, at the installations of NMIOTC in Souda-Crete, with a cross-party delegation of US Representatives, headed by Mr. Mike Rogers, Chairman of the US House Armed Services, who is visiting Greece,

The meeting was also joined by the Chief/HNDGS General Konstantinos Floros, and the Ambassador of the US in Athens, Mr. George Tsounis.

At their meeting, the importance of the Greece-US strategic defence partnership, the MDCA and its two Amendment Protocols (2019 and 2021) for the enhancement of both countries’ Defence and Security, as well as for stability in the broader region, were highlighted.

In addition, Greece’s role as a strong, stable and trustworthy partner, and Souda Bay’s geopolitical value were underlined. In this context, the importance of investments for the upgrade of the installations and infrastructures was also pointed out.

Mr. Minister also underlined the importance of implementing Greece-US defence equipment programmes, taking into consideration the Hellenic Defence Industry’s capabilities, comparative advantage and know-how.

When he referred to the security situation in the East Mediterranean, Mr. Panagiotopoulos highlighted the importance of avoiding destabilising, offending and revisionist behaviours that run counter to the fundamental principles of International Law and the principle of good neighbourly relations. The developments of the Ukraine War and the need to carry on providing defence and humanitarian help to counter the Russian invasion and help defend the country’s sovereignty and territorial integrity were also discussed.