WASHINGTON, DC –
This week the bipartisan U.S.-Greece Defense Cooperation Advancement Act, introduced by Representatives Chris Pappas (NH-01), Gus Bilirakis (FL-12), Dina Titus (NV-01), and Nicole Malliotakis (NY-11), co-chairs and vice co-chairs of the Hellenic Caucus, advanced out of the House Foreign Affairs Committee with strong, bipartisan support. This legislation would reauthorize International Military Education and Training (IMET) assistance to Greece for five years.
“Greece is an essential partner to the United States in ensuring regional security and prosperity. IMET assistance is a critical component of our bilateral relationship that strengthens cooperation, training, and interoperability between our Armed Forces,” said Congressman Pappas. “I’m glad my bipartisan legislation to reauthorize IMET for another five years advanced out of the Foreign Affairs Committee, and I will continue to push for its passage to strengthen cooperation with our ally, Greece, and to protect America’s security interests”.
“The United States and Greece share a strong and enduring partnership rooted in our shared commitment to democracy, security, and regional stability”, said Congressman Gus Bilirakis. “As co-chair of the Hellenic Caucus, I am proud to support and applaud the U.S.-Greece Defense Cooperation Advancement Act passing out of the Foreign Affairs Committee. The bill would strengthen joint military cooperation and reinforce our alliance. Greece remains a reliable NATO ally and a key partner in the Eastern Mediterranean, and this legislation reaffirms our commitment to peace, security, and stability in the region”.
“The diplomatic relationship and defense partnership between the United States and Greece are too important to be overlooked. I am proud to join my Hellenic colleagues in supporting the US-Greece Defense Cooperation Advancement Act to ensure regional security and economic prosperity in the Eastern Mediterranean. I look forward to voting for this legislation when it comes to the House floor”, said Congresswoman Titus.
“As Vice Co-Chair of the Congressional Hellenic Caucus, I am proud to see the U.S.-Greece Defense Cooperation Advancement Act advance out of the House Foreign Affairs Committee. This important step reaffirms our strong and enduring partnership with Greece, a critical partner in advancing security and stability in the Eastern Mediterranean”, said Congresswoman Nicole Malliotakis. “Strengthening the U.S.-Greece defense cooperation is more important now than ever before. This legislation will help bolster Greece’s security capabilities, support regional deterrence, and advance our shared commitment to peace, security, and democratic values”.
This legislation is endorsed by the American Hellenic Institute (AHI), AHEPA, and the Hellenic American Leadership Council (HALC).
Background:
Congress has recognized the significance of expanding U.S. cooperation with Greece through the Eastern Mediterranean Security and Energy Partnership Act and the United States-Greece Defense and Interparliamentary Partnership Act, which was signed into law as part of the FY2022 NDAA. The USGDIP recognized that Greece, a key NATO ally, is a pillar of stability in the Eastern Mediterranean and that the United States should remain committed to supporting the region’s security and prosperity through cooperation with Greece.
IMET appropriations for Greece help meet the increased need for education and training of the Greek Armed Forces. The funds facilitate the establishment of contacts between American and Greek officers, optimizing cooperation and interoperability between the Armed Forces of the two countries. The strategic importance of Greece at NATO’s Eastern and Southern flanks has been more reflected in recent years, including the war in Ukraine, between Israel and Hamas following the October 7th attacks, and U.S. military operations in Iran.
