U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio arrived in Greece on Tuesday to engage in talks aimed at bolstering strategic and defense cooperation between the two nations. The visit aligns with the sixth round of the Greece-U.S. Strategic Dialogue, set to occur on Wednesday at the Greek Foreign Ministry. Key discussions will encompass a range of topics, including regional security, defense, energy, shipping, technology, trade, investment, and law enforcement.
A primary focus of the visit is expected to be defense cooperation, highlighted by agreements concerning the acquisition of missiles and self-protection systems for Greece’s F-35 aircraft and upgraded F-16 Viper jets. Additionally, discussions are anticipated to include support for military equipment, such as Black Hawk and MH-60R helicopters.
Beyond defense, the dialogue is also expected to result in agreements on the preservation of archaeological materials, collaboration between the Greek Armed Forces and the U.S. National Guard, and the mutual recognition of seafarers’ professional certificates.
During his visit, Rubio is scheduled to meet with Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis. Their discussions are expected to focus on strategies to reduce reliance on China while expanding bilateral cooperation between Greece and the United States.