Today is an important day for our national defence and for Greek diplomacy, because the letter I received from the United States Secretary of State Antony Blinken highlighted and sealed the strategic depth of Greek-American relations.
With this letter, Greece is officially on track to acquire up to 40 latest generation F-35 fighter jets. Nonetheless, at the same time, it will also acquire a very large package of equipment for free, which decisively strengthens all three branches of the Armed Forces, as well as the Hellenic Coast Guard.
These are frigates, C-130 transport aircraft, armored tanks and vehicles, but also many other items of defence equipment, which our country secured after a personal request to President Biden in May 2022.
Therefore, the homeland is doubly shielded: on the one hand, its deterrent power is increased on land, in the air and at sea. On the other hand, the Greek taxpayer is not burdened, as this package will be available free of charge, from US reserves.
It is the result of a methodic, silent and long effort, that combined Greece’s alliance consistency on international fronts with the promotion of its national interests. A result which consolidates, at the same time, the dynamic and independent Greek-American strategic relationship.
Because today’s development vindicates the active diplomacy of credibility that we have been pursuing everywhere in recent years: from the war in Ukraine, NATO enlargement and Europe’s energy security, to the tension in the Eastern Mediterranean and the drama in the Middle East.
With clear positions and initiatives on major issues, Greece is now playing an active role in the Western world. Something that is recognised by partners and allies alike, who see in our country a stable supporter, a trusted interlocutor, but also a necessary companion and partner.
In an era of uncertainty, our country reaffirms that it stands with seriousness and geopolitical maturity on the world map, while, at the same time, it serves its national rights by shielding its defence. On the path of stability and peace, always with pride and national confidence.
