It is expected to become US ambassador to Athens
Greece, as a pillar of stability, underlined the proposed US ambassador to Greece Kimberly Gilfail during the hearing for ratification of its appointment to the Senate International Relations Committee.
“If I am confirmed, I am committed to fully utilizing this (my professional) experience in Athens. I am ready to be a tireless supporter of US interests, a solid partner for our Greek allies and a proud and loyal spokesman for President (Trump) and the American people, “he said.
In its introductory position, Mrs Gilfail underlined the crucial role that our country plays in the NATO southern wing, making special reference to defensive ties and the fact that Greece is one of the most consistent countries in fulfilling allied obligations related to their targets.
He also emphasized the emerging importance of Greece as a critical energy hub in the area, making a special reference to the liquefied natural gas terminal in Revithousa, the vertical corridor of Alexandroupolis and the electric interconnection projects with Cyprus and Israel.
NATO and defense cooperation
“In recent decades, Greece has evolved into a pillar of stability in a complex area and its commitment to our common security within NATO’s alliance is more important than ever. It is firmly ranked among the highest expenditure allies. Greece is projected to continue to invest 3% of its GDP in defense in 2025 and is on track to reach 5%, according to the alliance’s commitment to The Hague.
This is not just a matter of statistics. It is a tangible investment in our collective security. In addition, a significant part of these costs have been directed to the acquisition of US defense technology, including the formidable F-35 fighter aircraft, advanced Apache and Black Hawk helicopters and modern nautical vessels. In addition, the proposed joint project for the co -production of naval frigates demonstrates Greece’s long -term commitment to our strategic defense cooperation.
These modernization efforts reinforce Greece’s important military potential, reinforce the eastern side of our NATO alliance and create valuable opportunities for the US industry. If I am validated, I will set the highest priority the further acceleration of Greece’s defense modernization, further enhancing cooperation and synergies between our defense sectors. “
Greece as an energy hub
“The United States and Greece have made enormous progress in energy cooperation. Revithousa’s LNG terminal in Greece and the construction of the floating re -treatment and storage unit in Alexandroupolis allow the US to export more natural gas to Europe. While US gas now accounts for 20% of gas in Greece, from 2% five years ago, there are huge opportunities for the sale of more American energy in Greece and its neighbors.
If I am validated, I will work for the so -called vertical corridor between Greece, Bulgaria, Romania, Moldova, Ukraine and Central Europe, so that Greece can become a US gas hub for the region. I will also encourage Greece’s progress in the construction of electrical interconnection projects with its neighbors, including Cyprus, Israel and Egypt, who contribute to regional energy differentiation and security. “
Economic cooperation
“The financial opportunities remain a central pillar of the strong US-Greece relationship. If I am validated, I will serve as a strategic partner in promoting US commercial and investment interests, based on successful efforts to expand opportunities for US companies in key sectors, including defense, energy, shipping, infrastructure, technology, technology, technology, technology, technology, technology, technology, technology.
I will also seek active ways to encourage and facilitate Greek investment in the United States, promoting a more balanced, durable and mutually beneficial economic cooperation. “