What Athens expects from the presence of two ministers in Washington

At a time when relations with the American president have been tested by instability and unpredictable changes, Athens seeks to keep channels of communication open and reposition its strategic relationship with the United States on solid foundations. With defense, energy and investment as a vehicle, and with the simultaneous presence of two ministers in Washington, the Greek government is attempting to strengthen cooperation and safeguard its national interests in a fluid international environment.

Relations with the American president have been characterized by difficulties and unpredictable changes in the past period, which makes it even more imperative for Athens to maintain open and functional channels of communication. Within this context, and against the backdrop of intense geopolitical upheavals, the Greek government is activating a coordinated diplomatic and energy plan in Washington, with the presence of the Minister of Foreign Affairs, George Gerapetritis, and the Minister of Environment and Energy, Stavros Papastavros. At the same time, Athens is looking for ways to improve direct contact with the White House, proposing convergences in areas of strategic and business interest.

Eastern Mediterranean and Greece-US Strategic Dialogue: Gerapetritis’ Agenda in Washington
The two-day visit of Mr. Gerapetritis, centered on his meeting with his American counterpart, Marco Rubio, takes place at a time of heightened international challenges and aims to further deepen the strategic cooperation between Athens and Washington. Issues of bilateral interest, developments in the Eastern Mediterranean, the broader geopolitical environment and Euro-Atlantic relations are expected to be discussed during the talks, with particular emphasis on the 6th round of the Greece-US Strategic Dialogue, which remains pending. The timetable for its holding in Athens will also be discussed, as well as its main chapters, which concern defense cooperation, energy security and connectivity, as well as the promotion of investments and economic synergies.

Middle East issues are also expected to be on the agenda of the talks. Greece's participation as an observer in the Gaza Peace Council, as well as the intention to contribute forcefully on the ground, are part of the country's strategy to emerge as a responsible and reliable international partner. At the same time, the Greek side expresses interest in playing a role in the future of the region, with the participation of Greek companies in potential reconstruction projects.

Greece-USA: New defense cooperation and co-production of ships in Greek shipyards - Gerapetritis' contacts
In the same context, the Greek side's intention to strengthen cooperation in the defense industry is also included, with the possibility of co-production and construction of American-designed ships in Greek shipyards open. At the same time, the discussion on the future of the Greece-US Mutual Defense Cooperation Agreement, which expires in November 2026 and concerns infrastructures of strategic importance, such as Souda and the port of Alexandroupolis, is considered crucial. Diplomatic sources estimate that there is no immediate negative impact from the new American defense strategy, while the issue of further cooperation in armament programs is not ruled out.

During his stay in the United States, the Greek Foreign Minister will have contacts with American officials, seeking broader coordination on international developments, while he will also speak at the Atlantic Council, presenting the Greek positions on security challenges and the country's role as a factor of stability. At the same time, he will attend the signing ceremony of an agreement between ONEX Shipyards and Technologies and the Hanwha Power Systems group, a development that highlights the dimension of industrial and investment cooperation.

Strategic agreements for LNG: Greece emerges as a central player in Europe
The energy sector is also of particular importance. Mr. Papastavros’ presence in Washington is linked to the strategic deepening of transatlantic cooperation in the liquefied natural gas (LNG) sector and the strengthening of infrastructure that will strengthen the energy resilience of Southeastern Europe. In the context of a ministerial meeting on transatlantic energy cooperation, Atlantic SEE LNG Trade secured long-term agreements for the sale of American LNG with four countries of the Vertical Corridor – Albania, Bulgaria, Bosnia and Herzegovina and Ukraine. These agreements strengthen Greece's role as an energy gateway to Europe, at a time when alternative sources of supply are being sought.

Overall, "Operation Washington" reflects Athens' effort to move with cautious but ambitious maneuvers, maintaining the advantages of Greek-American strategic cooperation and strengthening the country's position in an environment of increased international fluidity.