AHI stresses strategic role of Cyprus and Greece
The importance of strengthening relations and broader US ties with Cyprus and Greece in the Eastern Mediterranean was highlighted in testimony submitted to the US House of Representatives by the American Hellenic Institute (AHI).
AHI President Nick Larigakis underlined that in an increasingly unstable geopolitical environment, the United States should invest in reliable allies that contribute to security, energy cooperation and foreign policy objectives.
Focus on defence and energy cooperation
The submission calls for continued US support for key programmes including International Military Education and Training (IMET), Foreign Military Financing (FMF) and the European Recapitalisation Incentive Programme (ERIP), alongside sustained backing for the UN peacekeeping mission in Cyprus (UNFICYP).
It also highlights the Eastern Mediterranean as a strategic crossroads between Europe, Asia and Africa, shaped by regional conflicts and energy security challenges.
Regional alliance framework
The document emphasises the importance of the “3+1” cooperation format between the United States, Greece, Cyprus and Israel, describing it as a key pillar of regional stability and coordination among democratic partners.
Greece is presented as a trusted NATO ally, with reference to strategic infrastructure such as Souda Bay and the port of Alexandroupolis, which support broader European energy and security objectives.
Cyprus as an emerging partner
Cyprus is described as an increasingly important US partner in security, training and energy policy. The submission highlights the role of the CYCLOPS Centre in supporting training for maritime and port security threats.
However, it also notes that Cyprus continues to face the consequences of the Turkish occupation, with the presence of Turkish troops on the island described as a source of ongoing instability.
Criticism of Turkey’s regional role
The submission contains strong criticism of Turkey, arguing that its actions in the Eastern Mediterranean and beyond undermine US interests and NATO cohesion.
It references Turkey’s acquisition of the Russian S-400 missile system and raises concerns about violations of Greek airspace, disputes in Cyprus’ Exclusive Economic Zone, and regional military interventions in Syria and Libya.
The document further argues that any US assistance to Turkey should be conditional on full compliance with international law and NATO obligations.
Call to prioritise US allies
The AHI concludes by urging the US Congress to prioritise partnerships with countries such as Greece and Cyprus, which it says consistently align with international law and US strategic interests in a critical geopolitical period.
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