U.S. Ambassador to Greece Kimberly Gilfoyle underscored the pivotal role of the American Hellenic Institute (AHI) in strengthening Athens–Washington relations and advancing Greek interests in the Eastern Mediterranean.
Speaking at an AHI event, on Monday Dec.1, marking the first year of the new Trump administration, she praised the institute as a vital channel through which Greek Americans promote Hellenic values and support shared policy goals.
Gilfoyle noted that AHI’s decades-long advocacy has laid the groundwork for today’s deepening cooperation, citing its consistent support for peace and stability in the region. She emphasized the importance of the 3+1 framework linking Greece, Cyprus, Israel and the United States, calling it a cornerstone of regional coordination.
Recalling last month’s P-TEC meeting in Athens, she said the gathering “revitalized” the 3+1 format through a ministerial energy session that showcased a unified commitment to diversifying energy supplies, reducing dependency on malign actors and improving regional connectivity.
That momentum, she added, was immediately translated into action with the signing of the first long-term commercial agreement linking U.S. LNG suppliers to Southeast and Central Europe via Greece. The 20-year deal positions Greece as a key energy hub and supports Europe’s shift away from Russian gas by 2027.
Gilfoyle also highlighted President Zelensky’s recent visit to Athens and the trilateral agreement enabling U.S.-sourced LNG deliveries to Ukraine through Greece — a development she described as a “triple win” for energy security, regional stability and economic cooperation.
Beyond energy, the ambassador pointed to expanding defense ties, referencing her meeting with Defense Minister Nikos Dendias and new opportunities for joint training and modernization. These steps, she said, reinforce an alliance rooted not only in security but in strong people-to-people ties.
Calling Greece a “cornerstone of stability” in the Eastern Mediterranean, Gilfoyle noted record numbers of American visitors and deepening collaboration in cultural heritage protection and education — further evidence, she said, of a partnership that remains both resilient and forward-looking.
