Greece’s Minister of Maritime Affairs and Insular Policy, Vassilis Kikilias, placed the spotlight on U.S. liquefied natural gas (LNG) production during his first day of meetings in Washington, Sept. 17. As he underlined, it is the Greek-owned fleet — “the strongest fleet worldwide” — that reliably, safely, and consistently transports American LNG to allies and partners across the globe.
A Timely Meeting
Kikilias met with U.S. Secretary of the Interior and Head of the National Energy Sovereignty Council (NEDC), Doug Burgum. The discussion followed closely on the heels of talks held just a week earlier and was designed to produce tangible outcomes.
According to an official statement, the meeting marked “another milestone in deepening the strategic cooperation between Greece and the United States in shipbuilding and shipping — sectors where the Greek-owned fleet, given its leading global position, can contribute significantly at a pivotal moment for the U.S. shipbuilding industry.”
Following the talks, Kikilias was welcomed at the NEDC headquarters in the White House.
Investment Partnerships
The minister also held discussions with Joshua Volz, Deputy Assistant Secretary for Europe, Eurasia, Africa, and the Middle East at the U.S. Department of Energy. Kikilias highlighted Greece’s crucial role as a hub at the crossroads of major geostrategic energy projects, such as the Vertical Corridor. Talks centered on strengthening strategic investment partnerships linking shipping, energy, and shipbuilding, with both sides recognizing the potential for mutually beneficial results.
Port Fees
In a separate meeting at the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative, Kikilias exchanged views with Chief of Staff Sam Mulopulos and Deputy Chief of Staff Zoe Sophos. Discussions focused on new USTR measures concerning the anticipated introduction of port service fees for certain categories of vessels.
Strengthening Maritime Ties
Kikilias also met with U.S. Senator Jerry Moran of Kansas, a member of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation. He thanked Moran for his longstanding friendship with Greece and for his understanding and solidarity on regional challenges.
Their talks centered on deepening U.S.–Greece cooperation in the maritime sector, underscoring shipping as a key pillar of the bilateral relationship.
